GRUNDARTANGI, Iceland –
U.S. Naval Forces Europe marked a historic milestone for undersea operations and transatlantic security with the first port visit of a nuclear-powered submarine to Iceland, July 9, 2025.
The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750) arrived in Grundartangi, Iceland, July 9, underscoring the enduring strength of the U.S.-Iceland defense partnership, which dates back 74 years.
On July 10, Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and a career submariner himself, visited the crew alongside Director General Jónas G. Allansson, Chief of Defence of Iceland, Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Chargé d'Affaires Erin Sawyer. Together, the leaders congratulated the Sailors for their hard work supporting NATO’s deterrence mission, defending the homeland, and reinforcing the vital bond between the United States and Iceland.
“Iceland’s support and strategic location are critical to collective defense in the North Atlantic,” said Munsch. “Our submariners stand the watch where few can, providing unmatched undersea dominance and ensuring our nations remain secure and free.”
During the visit, Adm. Munsch personally pinned the coveted Submarine Warfare insignia, known as “dolphins,” on a USS Newport News Sailor, marking his qualification as a submariner.
“Earning your dolphins is a rite of passage that connects you to generations of undersea warriors,” Munsch said. “It’s an honor to welcome another submariner to the family—especially here in Iceland, during such a historic visit.”
Machinist's Mate Fireman Ihsaan Swain, who received his dolphins from Adm. Munsch, reflected on the moment’s significance.
“It means everything to have Adm. Munsch pin my dolphins,” Swain said. “It’s the culmination of a lot of hard work and sacrifice, and I’m proud to do my part for our mission.”
This port visit highlights the growing cooperation between the United States and Iceland in the undersea domain and the broader commitment to NATO security across the North Atlantic.