US next 10,000-ton submarine payload module built, can carry more long-range weapons

General Dynamics Electric Boat showed the first completed Virginia Payload Module (VPM) for the submarine USS Arizona (SSGN-803). The 184-foot section was delivered from Quonset Point to Groton; once installed, the boat will reach about 460 feet and carry more weapons for long-range strikes.

• VPM module 184 feet long—largest delivery for Virginia-class submarines
• USS Arizona will be first boat with VPM and reach about 460 feet
• VPM increases long-range weapon capacity on Block V nuclear submarines