U.S. Navy: Los Angeles-class nuclear submarine visits Iceland for the first time in history

By Defence Industry Europe

The United States Navy marked a historic milestone on 9 July 2025 as the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750) conducted the first-ever port visit by such a vessel to Iceland. The arrival at Grundartangi reflects deepening security cooperation between the U.S. and Iceland amid evolving regional dynamics.

 

“This port visit is a pivotal moment, underscoring our unwavering commitment to collective defence and Arctic security,” said Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa. “Our submarine forces are advanced and vital to ensuring the security of our nations and our Alliance – patrolling the depths and providing a deterrent in an increasingly complex and contested world.”

The visit builds on a prior milestone in 2023, when Iceland allowed a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine into its waters for the first time. It underscores a shared approach to maintaining stability in the Arctic in the face of growing Russian military activity.

 

 

“The United States and Iceland maintain the shared goal of low tension in the Arctic, with full awareness of Russia’s efforts to build its military presence in the region,” said Erin Sawyer, Chargé d’affaires a.i. at the U.S. Embassy in Iceland. “Deep coordination with our incredible NATO ally Iceland to achieve this historic visit demonstrates our commitment to freedom of navigation and the security of our allies in the region.”

USS Newport News’s commanding officer, Commander Eric McCay, praised his crew’s professionalism and the significance of the occasion. “It is an incredible honour for our submarine and crew to make history today with our cherished Ally, Iceland,” he said. “The Sailors on USS Newport News are dedicated, top-performing submariners who are truly excited to be here.”

The submarine, in service for 36 years, has earned three Arctic Service Ribbons, awarded for operations above the Arctic Circle. This record reflects its longstanding role in Arctic missions and regional deterrence.

 

 

Fast-attack submarines such as USS Newport News support five of the U.S. Navy’s six core maritime strategy capabilities, including sea control and power projection. They are designed for multi-mission roles, including anti-submarine warfare, strike warfare and intelligence gathering.

For more than eight decades, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR/NAVAF) has strengthened ties with Allies and partners to promote collective security. Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR/NAVAF oversees operations in the European and African theatres.

 

 

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