The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Newport News conducted a scheduled port visit at Grundartangi Industrial Harbor, marking the first time a United States nuclear-powered submarine has moored at an Icelandic port. The visit underscored a deepening security partnership between Washington and Reykjavík and represented a milestone in undersea operations in the North Atlantic.
Operating under U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, fast attack submarines play a key role in collective defense and Arctic security, patrolling vital sea lanes and providing a deterrent in an increasingly contested region. “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,” said Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of Naval Forces Europe-Africa.
Cmdr. Eric McCay, Newport News commanding officer, hailed the visit as an honor for his crew. He noted that during its 36-year service, the submarine has earned three Arctic Service Ribbons, awarded for duty performed above the Arctic Circle, making the Newport News uniquely qualified for the Iceland mission. “The Sailors on USS Newport News are dedicated, top-performing submariners who are truly excited to be here,” he said.
While this marked the first time a U.S. nuclear-powered submarine has docked in the country, Iceland first allowed them into its territorial waters in 2023, when the attack submarine USS San Juan made a brief stop off the island’s west coast. According to local news sources, eight submarines have visited since then, including this one. “These service visits will contribute to strengthening the continuous and active submarine surveillance of allied countries, which ensures better situational awareness and increases the safety of underwater infrastructure such as submarine cables in the waters around Iceland. The frequency of visits will depend on the need at any given time,” a government release stated.
The visit comes amid growing concern among NATO members over heightened Russian and Chinese activity across the Arctic. Rapid melting of sea ice has opened new shipping routes and resource prospects, prompting calls for expanded allied patrols. Senior U.S. officials have emphasized Iceland’s strategic position at the gateway between the North Atlantic and the Arctic, noting that forward-deployed submarines with access to Reykjavík can spend more time on station without long transits to European ports.