Submarine “North Dakota” Put Through Sea Trials

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The Navy has put the $2.6 billion submarine named North Dakota through tests to determine its seaworthiness and capabilities, ahead of its Oct. 25 commissioning.

The Navy says the sub was delivered on Aug. 29, and put through trials in the Atlantic Ocean that included taking it underwater, testing its propulsion plant and conducting an emergency resurfacing.

Rear Adm. David Johnson says "North Dakota and her crew delivered an outstanding performance."

The sub can launch cruise missiles, deliver special forces commandos and carry out surveillance. It is the first Navy vessel to carry the name North Dakota in a century. It was to be commissioned in Connecticut in May, but that was postponed because of several design changes.