Robert Moreno USS Wyoming: Navy Commander Relieved Due to Loss of Confidence

The U.S. Navy announced Wednesday the relief of Commander Robert Moreno from his position as commanding officer of the USS Wyoming's Blue Crew, marking another high-profile command dismissal within the submarine force. The decision, made by Rear Admiral Bob Wirth of Submarine Group 10, cited a "loss of confidence" in Moreno's ability to command one of America's most critical strategic nuclear assets.

The Relief Announcement

On October 9, 2025, the Navy officially announced that Commander Robert Moreno had been relieved of his duties as commanding officer of the USS Wyoming (SSBN-742) Blue Crew. The relief came just five months after Moreno assumed command in May 2024, making this one of the shortest tenures for a ballistic missile submarine commander in recent memory.

"Navy commanding officers are held to high standards of personal and professional conduct," the Navy's official release stated. "They are expected to uphold the highest standards of responsibility, reliability, and leadership, and the Navy holds them accountable when they fall short of those standards." The statement notably did not elaborate on the specific circumstances that led to the loss of confidence.

Captain David Burke, deputy for training at Submarine Squadron 20, has been temporarily assigned responsibility for the USS Wyoming Blue Crew while the Navy conducts its search for a permanent replacement. This transition comes at a critical time as the submarine is currently undergoing a maintenance repair period at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia.

Commander Robert Moreno's Background

Commander Robert Moreno's naval career spans nearly two decades, beginning with his enlistment in 2005 before transitioning to commissioned officer status. He officially commissioned as an officer on December 21, 2005, following what appears to have been a prior enlisted service period that demonstrated his commitment to submarine warfare.

Moreno's submarine experience includes tours aboard some of the Navy's most sophisticated vessels. His service record includes assignments on the USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735), another Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, the USS Dallas (SSN-700), a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, and the USS North Carolina (SSN-777), one of the newer Virginia-class attack submarines. This diverse experience across both strategic and attack submarine platforms positioned him well for command of a ballistic missile submarine.

Between 2001 and 2003, Moreno served as commander of the Joint Force Maritime Component, indicating his involvement in joint military operations that required coordination between different service branches. He also held positions with Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic and Submarine Readiness Squadron 32, roles that provided him with extensive experience in submarine operations and readiness protocols before assuming command of the Wyoming.

Following his relief, Moreno has been temporarily reassigned to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, where he will likely await his next assignment or potential administrative actions depending on the circumstances surrounding his dismissal.

USS Wyoming: America's Strategic Deterrent

The USS Wyoming (SSBN-742) represents one of the most sophisticated and strategically important vessels in the U.S. Navy's fleet. As an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, she serves as a cornerstone of America's nuclear triad, providing continuous at-sea deterrent capability that has helped maintain global stability for decades.

Commissioned on July 13, 1996, the USS Wyoming was built by Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut. The submarine measures 560 feet in length with a beam of 42 feet and displaces approximately 18,750 tons when submerged. Her nuclear propulsion system allows for virtually unlimited underwater endurance, limited only by crew supplies and maintenance requirements.

Like all Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, the Wyoming operates with two complete crews - the Blue Crew and Gold Crew - allowing for maximum operational availability. While one crew is at sea conducting strategic deterrent patrols, the other crew is in port for training, rest, and preparation for their next deployment. This dual-crew system ensures that America's sea-based nuclear deterrent remains continuously available.

The submarine is capable of carrying up to 24 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, each with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). This capability makes each Ohio-class submarine one of the most powerful weapons platforms ever created, capable of striking targets thousands of miles away with unprecedented accuracy.

Navy Leadership Standards and Accountability

The relief of Commander Moreno highlights the Navy's unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of leadership, particularly within the submarine force. Submarine commanders are entrusted with some of the most sophisticated and dangerous weapons systems in the military arsenal, requiring absolute confidence in their judgment, integrity, and leadership capabilities.

The phrase "loss of confidence" is commonly used by the Navy when relieving commanding officers, serving as an umbrella term that can encompass various issues ranging from personal conduct to professional performance. While the specific reasons for Moreno's relief remain undisclosed, the Navy's decision reflects its zero-tolerance approach to any behavior or performance that could compromise mission effectiveness or crew safety.

This relief comes amid a broader pattern of command dismissals across the Navy in recent years. Just last month, the Navy relieved the commanding officer of the USS Santa Barbara's Blue Crew, also citing loss of confidence. These actions demonstrate the service's commitment to maintaining discipline and professionalism at the highest levels of command, regardless of the potential disruption to operations.

The submarine force faces unique challenges that require exceptional leadership. Submarine commanders must manage complex nuclear propulsion systems, navigate in three-dimensional underwater environments, and maintain crew morale during extended submerged operations. The psychological and technical demands of submarine command require officers of the highest caliber, and the Navy maintains strict standards to ensure mission success.

Strategic Implications and What's Next

The relief of a ballistic missile submarine commander carries significant implications for both operational readiness and strategic deterrence. However, the Navy's dual-crew system and robust command structure ensure that the USS Wyoming remains capable of fulfilling her strategic mission without interruption.

Captain Burke's temporary assignment provides continuity while the Navy identifies and vets a permanent replacement for Commander Moreno. The selection process for submarine commanders is rigorous, requiring extensive experience, proven leadership, and psychological evaluation to ensure candidates can handle the unique pressures of submarine command.

The incident also serves as a reminder of the human element in America's strategic deterrent force. While the technology aboard submarines like the Wyoming is highly advanced and reliable, the effectiveness of these systems ultimately depends on the professionalism and competence of the sailors who operate them. The Navy's willingness to take decisive action when standards are not met reinforces public confidence in the submarine force's capability and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "loss of confidence" mean in Navy terms?

"Loss of confidence" is a standard Navy term used when relieving commanding officers. It indicates that senior leadership no longer trusts the officer's ability to effectively command their unit, but doesn't specify the exact reasons, which can range from personal conduct issues to professional performance concerns.

How long was Commander Moreno in command of the USS Wyoming?

Commander Robert Moreno assumed command of the USS Wyoming Blue Crew in May 2024 and was relieved in October 2025, serving approximately five months in the position - a relatively short tenure for a submarine commander.

What is the dual-crew system on ballistic missile submarines?

Ohio-class submarines operate with two complete crews - Blue and Gold - that alternate deployments. While one crew is at sea conducting patrols, the other is in port for training and rest. This system maximizes the submarine's operational availability and ensures continuous strategic deterrent coverage.

Will this affect the USS Wyoming's operational capability?

No, the submarine's operational capability remains intact. Captain David Burke has been assigned temporary command, and the USS Wyoming is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance. The Navy's robust command structure ensures mission continuity despite leadership changes.

Where is the USS Wyoming currently stationed?

The USS Wyoming is home-ported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia, which serves as the East Coast base for the Navy's ballistic missile submarine fleet. The submarine is currently undergoing maintenance at this facility.

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