USS Charlotte crew awarded Navy Unit Commendation for sinking Iranian frigate

A U.S. Navy submarine believed to have played a significant role in the early stages of the Iran war has received a prestigious military award for its combat heroism.

Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao presented the Navy Unit Commendation to the crew of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Charlotte, according to a post on X from the secretary.

“The most powerful weapons in our Navy are often the ones never seen—and never heard,” Cao said. “This recognition reflects their professionalism, discipline, and unwavering dedication to the mission.”

The Navy Unit Commendation is awarded to any ship, aircraft, or unit of the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps that “distinguishes itself for extremely meritorious service in support of military operations,” according to the Navy.

Historic Torpedo Kill

In March, a U.S. submarine achieved the first confirmed torpedo kill by a U.S. submarine since World War II.

That boat was reportedly the USS Charlotte, which fired an MK-48 torpedo at the Islamic Republic of Iran Ship Dena as it was transiting the Indian Ocean, 20 miles south of Sri Lanka. The vessel sank within minutes, killing upwards of 80 people. Thirty-two survivors were rescued.

The last U.S. submarine to record a torpedo kill was the Tench-class USS Torsk, which destroyed two Japanese coastal defense frigates on August 14, 1945.

About the Author

Riley Ceder is a reporter at Military Times, covering breaking news, criminal justice, investigations, and cyber. He previously worked as an investigative practicum student at The Washington Post, where he contributed to the Abused by the Badge investigation.