The Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine USS Seawolf (SSN 21) was awarded the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy for 2020 at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, June 9.

The trophy was presented by Rear Adm. Jeffrey Jablon, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

“Arleigh Burke was known for his hard-charging focus on fleet tactics and competency. That is why the Arleigh Burke trophy is about being the most improved fleet vessel in tactical performance and operational performance, whether it be an aircraft, warship or submarine,” said Jablon. “It is about how well you’ve improved over the last year, and the Sailors of Seawolf have certainly done that. I want to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for what you did to earn this trophy and for everything that you do on a day-to-day basis to support our Submarine Force.”

Seawolf was announced as the 2020 Pacific Fleet winner via Naval message in May. The trophy itself is awarded annually to one submarine, ship or aircraft squadron, on both the Pacific and Atlantic Fleet, for having achieved the greatest improvement in battle efficiency during the calendar year, based upon the battle efficiency competition.

“Getting this award is a testament to the hard work that this crew has put in the past couple years,” said Cmdr. Jeff Fassbender, commanding officer, USS Seawolf (SSN 21), a native of St. Marys, Kansas. “It's indicative of the improvement they have made after getting out of a long shipyard availability and then two years of constant operations. I see [their hard work] here day in and day out, just being a month in command, and that’s why this crew was able to do what they have done.”

Seawolf is the lead ship of the Seawolf-class fast-attack submarines and is currently homeported at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor. The ship employs advanced sensors, improved combat systems, and the capability to rapidly deploy to combat threats from submarines, surface ships, and land targets.