Dahlgren NSWC
Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Relocation Information
Photo by Andrew Revelos, Naval Support Activity South Potomac
Welcome to Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren
Welcome to NSWC Dahlgren! This East Coast base has a long history of providing warfare to protect our country. While that mission used to make NSWC Dahlgren the site for testing naval guns and ammunition, today, it is much quieter as it's focused on developing and integrating warfare systems. While the division's headquarters is in Dahlgren, their efforts provide Fleet support to the NSWC Dahlgren Division Dam Neck Activity in Virginia Beach, VA.
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U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cyrus Roson/Released
ATLANTIC OCEAN – The amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) fires its MK46 30mm gun during a live-fire exercise. Navy scientists and engineers evaluated a strike group’s Aegis combat system and gun weapon systems – including the 30 millimeter gun – as well as unmanned vehicles integrated with surface and air assets at the 2016 USS Dahlgren demonstration, Aug. 30. The test – made possible by a cybernetic laboratory called USS Dahlgren – proved engagement coordination across the simulated battlegroup and live fire destruction of multiple targets from two combatants utilizing two different gun-based systems. “This has been five to six years in the making and couldn't come at a better time as we see real-world events such as the recent small boat incursions in the Middle East, highlighting the need for the Fleet,” said Capt. Brian Durant, NSWCDD commanding officer.
NSWC Dahlgren competes globally to ensure that the U.S. has the most innovative and integrated warfare systems.
Here, you’ll also find:
- Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center Detachment Dahlgren
- Sea-Based Weapons Systems, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division
- The Center for Surface Combat Systems
- The Aegis Training and Readiness Center
- The Joint Warfare Analysis Center
- The U.S. Space Force 18th Space Control Squadron Detachment 1
Frequently Asked Questions about NSWC Dahlgren
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Photo by NSWC Dahlgren Facebook Page
1. Where is NSWC Dahlgren located?
The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWC) is in Dahlgren, VA, nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. It sits approximately 23 miles east of Fredericksburg, VA. Colonial Beach and King George sit within a 15-mile radius of Dahlgren, while Port Royal and Bowling Green, VA, sit about 30 minutes from the base.
2. Is there military housing at NSWC Dahlgren?
Yes, there is military housing offered at NSWC Dahlgren. On base housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing and consists of 234 homes within five communities. See more info in the Housing Section.
3. How many gates does NSWC Dahlgren have?
NSWC Dahlgren has two gates:
- A Gate (Main Gate): open 24/7 for all visitors.
- B Gate: open Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for DOD ID holders.
Gate hours can be found on the Visitor Information page of the NSWC Dahlgren website.
4. Who is NSWC Dahlgren named for?
The warfare center was named for Rear Admiral John Adolphus Dahlgren, a Civil War Navy commander known as the “father of modern naval ordnance.”
5. What is the zip code for Dahlgren NSWC?
The zip code for Dahlgren NSWCis 22448. Other nearby zip codes include 22554, 20603, 22443.
6. What is the 2023 BAH for Dahlgren NSWC?
The 2023 BAH for NSWC Dahlgren ranges from $2,004 for E-1 to $2,475 for E-9 with dependents, and $2,031 for O-1 to $3,096 for O-7 with dependents. See housing section for more info.
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Image from nps.edu
NSWC Dahlgren sits between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers in Dahlgren, VA. The closest towns to the base are Colonial Beach and King George. While Fredericksburg is approximately 35 minutes east of Dahlgren, and Stafford, VA, is about 50 minutes north.
This duty station lends itself to outdoor adventures and convenience to larger outings, whether you’re heading to downtown Fredericksburg, venturing out for a weekend of camping at Shenandoah National Park, or seeking a glamorous night away at the nation’s capital in D.C.
Nearby military installations:
Arrival Lodging
Photo from dodlodging.net
NSWC Dahlgren Lodging Contact Info
Naval Support Facility Dahlgren
17458 Potomac Inn Road Bldg. 960
Dahlgren, VA 22448
540-469-4174
NSWC Dahlgren Housing
Photo from Liberty Military Housing
On-base housing is privatized and managed by Liberty Military Housing, which offers five neighborhoods with one- to four-bedroom homes. The communities include the average cost of utilities and access to community rooms, jogging trails, a splash pad, a pool, and more.
Liberty Military Housing Contact Info
6136 Jenkins Road
Suite 205
Dahlgren VA 44228
540-413-9880
6136 Jenkins Road Suite 205 Bldg. 142
Dahlgren, VA 22448
Phone: 540-653-8505/8506
Email: Dahlgren_Housing@navy.mil
Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
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NSWC Dahlgren Off Base Housing
Homes for sale and houses for rent near NSWC Dahlgren—NSWC Dahlgren Homes
Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash
Base Search
City Search
Fredericksburg
Waldorf
Military families with orders to NSWC Dahlgren have several options for finding a place to live nearby. Fredericksburg, VA, can be a good pick for those willing to drive about 45 minutes to and from work, as it offers many housing options among a larger military community. Others, seeking a home closer to base in a small town, might look in Colonial Beach or cross the bridge to Maryland. The cost of housing in Dahlgren, VA is slightly higher than the national average.
NSWC Dahlgren BAH Information
The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a U.S.-based allowance determined by geographic duty location, pay grade, and dependency status. It provides uniformed servicemembers compensation based on housing costs in local civilian housing markets when government quarters are not provided. Learn more about your Basic Allowance for Housing.
NSWC Dahlgren is near Dahlgren and Fredericksburg, VA, with many options to buy or rent. The NSWC Dahlgren 2023 BAH is close to the cost of living in the area. Some sample NSWC Dahlgren BAH rates for zip code 22448:
- E-1 with dependents: $2,004
- E-1 without dependents: $1,812
- E-9 with dependents: $2,475
- E-9 without dependents: $2,091
- O-1 with dependents: $2,031
- O-1 without dependents: $2,001
- O-7 with dependents: $3,096
- O-7 without dependents: $2,388
Area Weather and Climate
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Photo by Caledon State Park Facebook Page
Families living at NSWC Dahlgren get to experience all four seasons. While the winters are cold and sometimes snowy, the summers are hot and humid. The springtime brings rain and blooming flowers, and the fall is picture-perfect, with brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow best seen at the Shenandoah National Park.
The biggest concern residents face is hurricanes. Hurricane season runs from April through November. For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
NSWC Dahlgren Area Schools
Photo by DoDEA Dahlgren School Facebook Page
NSWC does offer a DoDEA school for military families. Dahlgren School provides education for grades Pre-K through Grade 8. Families who live off-base fall under the King George County Public Schools.
Image from Sharp School
If you’re looking for a private school education for your children, Private School Review is a great tool to help you find the right fit for you and your family. Families interested in homeschooling should follow the Virginia Department of Education homeschool regulations.
For any questions or concerns, contact the NSWC Dahlgren School Liaison Officer.
NSWC Dahlgren School Liaison Officer Contact Information
6027 School House Lane Bldg. 214
Dahlgren, VA 22448
Phone: 540-653-2070
Email: lolita.g.gunter.naf@us.navy.mil
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Support for Military and Families
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
NSWC Dahlgren is the area’s largest employer; however, those looking for work off-base can find more options in Fredericksburg, VA.
Looking to volunteer? Try these organizations:
Higher education near NSWC Dahlgren:
Other helpful links:
Things to Do Near NSWC Dahlgren
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Photo from Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County Battlefields and National Military Park Facebook Page
Caledon State Park: The Caledon State Park sits just west of NSWC Dahlgren and is a National Landmark known for its old-growth forest and summer home to many American bald eagles. The park offers trails leading to the Potomac River, a visitor center, and picnic areas. The park is a great attraction for bird watchers of all ages and an opportunity to breathe fresh air.
Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail: This 16-mile trail is open for walking, running, and cycling. It runs alongside the historic 1940s Dahlgren Branch Trail line and 240 acres of the preserved sanctuary of native wildlife and natural beauty.
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park: Visit nearby battlefields like Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania.
Old Town Fredericksburg: Visit the charming historic city of Fredericksburg, VA. Stroll among more than 350 original 18th and 19th-century buildings in Frederickburg’s 40-block National Historic District. With over 100 shops, chef-owned restaurants, and boutiques along the Rappahannock River, there is something here for everyone.
Fredericksburg Nationals: For all baseball lovers, a visit to see the Fredericksburg Nationals is a must. This minor league baseball team is a single affiliate of the Washington Nationals. Games usually begin in April and conclude in September. Season tickets are available as well as event space.
Westmoreland State Park: Located approximately 20 miles south of NSWC Dahlgren on the Potomac River’s Northern Neck, this park has riverfront beaches, hiking/biking trails, and boat rentals. You can rent a cabin and explore the beaches while hunting for shark teeth and other fossils. Fun fact: this state park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Base Address:
6149 Welsh Road
Dahlgren
,
22448