Norfolk conducted extensive trials of the next-generation torpedo, ADCAP, as well as advanced and secret acoustic experiments.

On 23 July 1988 Norfolk fired the first ADCAP torpedo, sinking the ex-USS Jonas Ingram.

[1] On 17 January 1989, Norfolk collided with the combat stores ship USS San Diego in the Thimble Shoals channel as both vessels were headed to sea.

[3] The sub made a surface transit to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay for drydocking and repairs within a few days,[1] and San Diego required dry dock repairs that were completed 10 April 1989.

[2] As a result of this collision, COMSUBLANT issued orders limiting submarine speed and passing activities while in the restricted waters of the Hampton Roads channels.