New Sub's First Sea Trials Completed

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (AP) — The newest Virginia-class submarine built at Newport News Shipbuilding is undergoing a series of sea trials before being delivered to the Navy later this month.

Huntington Ingalls Industries says the fast-attack submarine Minnesota successfully completed its first of three rounds of sea trials and evaluations this week.

The submarine submerged for the first time and operated at high speeds on the surface and under water.

Officials say all systems, components and compartments are being tested during the trials.

Construction of the Minnesota began in February 2008. It's expected to be delivered to the Navy about 11 months ahead of its contracted delivery date.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)