The hidden domain: under the ocean’s surface. From unmanned and nuclear-powered subs to stealth capabilities, how does our Navy keep us safe and our economy stable?
Rear Admiral Michael Van Poots, the Commander of the Navy’s Undersea Warfighting Development Center (UWDC) in Groton, joins us in New Canaan to explore the future of undersea warfighting and Connecticut’s critical contributions to naval innovations.
The Undersea Warfighting Development Center, also known as the Navy’s “Top Gun” for submariners, is based in Groton, Connecticut and leads the Navy’s innovation in undersea warfighting tactics and tech.
Join us for a deep dive into everything from submarine innovation in Connecticut to the Navy’s role in securing global trade routes and ensuring the U.S. stays one step ahead of its adversaries.
The Details:
When: Thursday, April 3rd | 6:30PM-7:30PM
Where: New Canaan Library | 151 Main St, New Canaan, CT 06840
Tickets: No charge, registration required
In Partnership with the New Canaan Library
Featuring
Rear Adm. Michael R. Van Poots
Commander, Undersea Warfighting Development Center, Groton CT
Rear Admiral Michael R. Van Poots is a native of Sparta, NJ. He received his commission from the Reserve Officer Training Corps program in Troy, NY, in 1995. He is a Level II Joint Qualified Officer.
His flag officer tours include Deputy Commander Submarine Force Atlantic, Deputy Commander Submarine Force Pacific, Airborne Emergency Action Officer (AEAO) at U.S. Strategic Command for Operation LOOKING GLASS, and in August 2024 he assumed his current duties as Commander Undersea Warfighting Development Center, Groton, CT.
His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. He has served with crews that have earned the Navy Battle Efficiency ‘E’ award, and various service, expeditionary, unit and campaign awards.
Read more about RAdm. Van Poots here: Commander
About the Undersea Warfighting Development Center
The Undersea Warfighting Development Center (UWDC) was established to enhance fleet undersea warfighting capabilities and readiness across the theater, operational, and tactical levels of war. The mission is to lead Undersea Superiority, enabling decisive effects from or in the undersea domain when and where the operational commander directs. Learn more about the UWDC here.
In Partnership With
Mission Partners
Mark & Linda Caplan
Donna Collins
Susan & Peter G. Kelly
Support global engagement in Connecticut by contacting CEO Megan Torrey about sponsorship opportunities.
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