Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division
The United States Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD), named for Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren, is located in King George County, Virginia, in close proximity to the largest fleet concentration area in the Navy. NSWCDD is part of the Naval Surface Warfare Centers under the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). NSWCDD was initially established 16 October 1918 as a remote extension of Maryland's Indian Head Proving Ground used for testing naval guns. The Dahlgren site was named the Lower Station, Dahlgren Naval Proving Ground when it first opened. The location on the Potomac River was specifically chosen for the development of a long ballistic test range on the Potomac River, required for the testing of modern, high-powered munitions.
An electromagnetic railgun at terminal range located at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren
John A. Dahlgren
John Adolphus Bernard Dahlgren was a United States Navy officer who founded his service's Ordnance Department and launched significant advances in gunnery.
Dahlgren during the American Civil War
Rear Admiral Dahlgren, on board the USS Pawnee, beside a 50-pounder Dahlgren rifle, one of his bottle-shaped cast-iron cannons, c. 1864
Dahlgren during the American Civil War
Dahlgren's tombstone in Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania