The nation's newest and most advanced nuclear-powered attack submarine, (SSN-780), returned to the Electric Boat shipyard following the successful completion of its first voyage in open seas. is the seventh ship of the Virginia Class. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD). 's alpha sea trials included a range of submarine and propulsion-plant operations, submerging for the first time, and high-speed runs on and below the surface to demonstrate that the ship's propulsion plant is fully mission-capable. The sea trials were directed by U.S. Navy Adm. Kirkland Donald, director – Naval Nuclear Propulsion. Also participating in the sea trials were Rear Adm. William Hilarides, program executive officer – Submarines; Rear Adm.