US Navy's USS Washington Undocks on Schedule at Portsmouth Amid Submarine Maintenance Delays
The U.S. Navy undocked USS Washington (SSN 787) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard on October 27, completing the dry-dock stage of its maintenance and modernization availability on schedule. The Block III Virginia-class attack submarine now proceeds to further tests before sea trials and eventual return to operations, with no service-return date announced. Washington is the second Block III boat processed at the Maine yard, making its schedule a relevant measure as the Navy works through submarine maintenance delays. Undocking closes one major maintenance phase but does not by itself indicate the entire overhaul is complete.