Armed Forces News

The Navy is combing the ranks for female enlisted sailors who would make good submariners. Earlier this month, the Enlisted Women in Submarines Task Force visited several bases in the San Diego area, and plans are underway to extend the search to other bases. Submarine service billets officially opened to women Jan. 21. To date, more than 60 officers and sailors now serve on the Navy’s guided-missile (SSGN) and ballistic missile (SSBN) nuclear submarines. More are needed to help staff the Virginia-class fast-attack submarines as they join the fleet. Plans call for integration of female sailors on SSGN and SSBN vessels at Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base, Ga., starting next year and continuing through 2021. Integration onto Virginia-class vessels will begin in 2020.