USS Wyoming Submarine Commander Relieved Over ‘Loss of Confidence’

The U.S. Navy has relieved Cmdr. Robert Moreno, the commanding officer of the USS Wyoming (SSBN-742) Blue Crew, citing a loss of confidence in his ability to command. Rear Adm. Bob Wirth, commander of Submarine Group Ten, announced the decision on Wednesday, October 9, 2025. The Navy did not provide further details about the circumstances leading to the decision.

USS Wyoming, an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, is currently docked for maintenance at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay in Georgia. The leadership change will not affect the submarine’s operations, according to officials.

Details of the Command Change

Cmdr. Moreno, who took command of the Blue Crew in May 2024, has been reassigned to duties at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. He began his Navy career as an enlisted sailor before commissioning as an officer on December 21, 2005. Over his career, Moreno served aboard several submarines, including USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735), USS Dallas (SSN-700), and USS North Carolina (SSN-777). He also held posts at Submarine Force Atlantic and Submarine Readiness Squadron 32.

In its statement, the Navy emphasized the high standards expected of submarine commanders. “Navy commanding officers are held to high standards of personal and professional conduct. They are expected to uphold the highest standards of responsibility, reliability, and leadership, and the Navy holds them accountable when they fall short,” the statement said.

Capt. David Burke has been assigned as the interim commanding officer of the USS Wyoming until a permanent replacement is appointed. The dual-crew structure of Ohio-class submarines, with separate Blue and Gold crews, ensures operational continuity despite command changes.

USS Wyoming (SSBN-742) arrives in Norfolk, Virginia, on Feb. 2, 2024, to support the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) Component Commanders Conference. (Image Source: U.S. Navy)

Broader Impact and Context

The removal of Cmdr. Moreno is part of a broader trend of leadership changes within the Navy, often due to “loss of confidence” — a term used when officials determine a commander is no longer suited to lead, even if no misconduct is publicly disclosed. Such removals are meant to uphold the Navy’s strict standards for leadership and accountability.

For the USS Wyoming, the timing of the leadership change minimizes operational disruption, as the submarine is currently undergoing maintenance rather than active deployment. Routine activities such as crew training, safety drills, and maintenance work will continue under Capt. Burke’s oversight.

In summary, the Navy relieved USS Wyoming submarine commander Cmdr. Robert Moreno for a loss of confidence. The ballistic missile submarine remains in port for maintenance, and leadership continuity is ensured with Capt. David Burke stepping in temporarily.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is the interim commander of USS Wyoming?

Capt. David Burke is serving as the interim commanding officer following Cmdr. Moreno’s removal.

Q2: Why was Cmdr. Robert Moreno relieved?

He was relieved due to a “loss of confidence” in his ability to command. The Navy did not provide further details.

Q3: What is the USS Wyoming currently doing?

The submarine is in port at Kings Bay undergoing maintenance.

Q4: When did Moreno assume command?

He took command of the Blue Crew in May 2024.

Q5: Will operations be affected by the leadership change?

No. The Navy says the dual-crew system ensures continuity, and the submarine remains on schedule.

References

USNI News. (2025). Ballistic Missile Submarine USS Wyoming CO Removed From Command. October 9, 2025.

Navy Times. (2025). Navy Relieves USS Wyoming Commander Over Loss of Confidence. October 9, 2025.