Reports revealed that through the extensive use of modular construction, open architecture, and commercial off-the-shelf components, the Virginia class is designed to remain state-of-the-practice for its entire operational life through the rapid introduction of new systems and payloads.
The U.S. Navy also highlighted that most of the changes are found in the bow where the traditional, air-backed sonar sphere has been replaced with a water-backed Large Aperture Bow array, which reduces acquisition and life-cycle costs while providing enhanced passive detection capabilities.