NORFOLK NAVAL STATION, Va. -- U.S. Space Force members of the 8th Training Squadron (8 TS), Space Delta 8 joined U.S. Navy submarine forces, Commander Submarine Atlantic (COMSUBLANT), to embark on a pre-deployment training exercise aboard the USS New Mexico (SSN 779) Norfolk Naval Station, Va., 21-24 Jan., 2025. These were the first Guardians in history to go underway on a U.S. Navy submarine.
The USS New Mexico, captained by Commander Hector Marin, hosted the four Guardians for a 4-day immersion event demonstrating training maneuvers, readiness drills, and mission capabilities.
To kick off the joint training event, Commander Marin emphasized the key to his crew's success, saying: "Our lethality and mission success stem from a strict adherence to safety and mastery of our craft, achieved through rigorous training. This training enables us to live up to our unit motto: 'Ready to run!'"
The Guardians provided a detailed brief to the crew, showcasing the Space Force, threats and challenges, and how both space and submarine forces support each other in combat.
Guardians were also given the opportunity to observe and participate in establishing satellite communication connectivity during live maneuvers to gain a better understanding on how the submarine force utilizes SATCOM for unity of command and effort.
“This immersion experience demonstrates Space Operation Command’s dedication to the combat readiness of presented forces as well as COMSUBLANT’s commitment to prepare for the fight,” said U.S. Space Force Lt. Col Zachery Leonard, 8TS commander.
U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Ian Weller from COMSUBLANT, has been involved in the larger immersion efforts between the units since Aug. 2024. Since then, Delta 8 has worked with COMSUBLANT members for immersion and familiarization visits in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Norfolk, Virginia.
When finalizing the trip arrangements, Lt. Cmdr. Weller shared his enthusiasm with the Guardians: “Going to sea on a warship is something very few people get to do, and much less go to sea at depth- it’s a truly wonderful experience!”
The units hope to continue their beneficial immersion and partnerships in the future.
“Space Delta 8 will continue to step into the arena through deeper integration with Joint partners to provide our critical users with the space-enabled combat edge to out-see, out-maneuver, out-shoot our adversaries,” said Leonard. “It further exemplifies efforts of the Space Force and Navy to weave an integrated, combat-effective joint force ready to tackle the most difficult challenges in all domains.”