Huntington Ingalls Industries has hosted a keel authentication ceremony for the US Navy’s 25th Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the December 11 event at Newport News Shipbuilding division was held virtually, with Sheryl Sandberg, chief operating officer of Facebook, serving as the ship’s sponsor for the ceremony.
In a pre-recorded video message, Sandberg etched her initials onto a metal plate, signifying the keel of SSN 798 as being “truly and fairly laid.”
Ronnie Payne, a master shipbuilder who has worked on every Virginia-class submarine built at Newport News, then traced Sandberg’s initials with a welding torch at the company’s supplemental module outfitting facility. The metal plate will remain affixed to the ship throughout its life.
“This year has been difficult for so many, and I am extra grateful for moments like this one when we can celebrate such an important milestone together,” Sandberg said. “I have a deep respect for the shipbuilders who will bring this vessel to life. I am so grateful for the opportunity to build a lifelong bond with this boat and its crew in my role as the sponsor.”
“This construction milestone is typically a small ceremony with shipbuilders and the submarine’s crew in attendance,” said Jennifer Boykin, president of Newport News Shipbuilding. “Given the current COVID-19 environment and the precautions it requires, today’s event is smaller than usual in scope, but not in importance.”
“Today’s event is a significant milestone in the life of the boat because it is the official construction kickoff, but it also marks the beginning of an important partnership between our shipbuilders who will build this mighty war vessel and the sailors who will bring her to life,” Boykin added.
Massachusetts is the 25th Virginia-class fast attack submarine being built under the teaming agreement with General Dynamics Electric Boat. Construction began in March 2017 and is approximately 50% complete. The boat is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in 2023.
Virginia-class submarines displace 7,800 tons, with a hull length of 377 feet and a diameter of 34 feet. Thanks to the Virginia Payload Module that will triple the submarines’ missile strike capacity, Block V boats will displace 10,200 tons and have a length of 460 feet. They are capable of speeds in excess of 25 knots and can dive to a depth greater than 800 feet, while carrying Mark 48 advanced capability torpedoes, Tomahawk land-attack missiles and unmanned underwater vehicles.
