In a momentous occasion, the Navy is set to christen the future USS Iowa (SSN 797), one of its newest Virginia-class fast-attack submarines. The christening ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. EDT on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Connecticut.
This remarkable event will be graced by distinguished speakers, including the Honorable Erik Raven, Under Secretary of the Navy, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Vice Adm. Frank Morley, principal military Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Research, Development and Acquisition), Kevin Graney, president of Electric Boat, Bryan Caccavale, vice president of Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding, as well as U.S. Representative Zach Nunn of Iowa's 3rd District and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney of Connecticut's 2nd District.
A cherished Navy tradition will be observed during the christening ceremony as Mrs. Christie Vilsack, the submarine's sponsor, fulfills her role by breaking a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow. Hailing from Iowa, Mrs. Vilsack has an accomplished background, having served as the education advisor to the chancellor of Colorado State University and as the senior advisor for International Education at USAID during the Obama Administration. As Iowa's First Lady, she led educational initiatives and advocated for the state's public libraries. Mrs. Vilsack and her husband, Mr. Tom Vilsack, the Secretary of Agriculture, reside in rural Iowa.
The future USS Iowa (SSN 797) holds special significance as it becomes the fourth U.S. Navy vessel and the first submarine to be named after the state of Iowa. Previous ships named in honor of Iowa were battleships and a converted merchant ship, which unfortunately was never activated. This christening highlights the enduring bond between the Navy and the state of Iowa.
The Virginia-class submarines have an illustrious history within the U.S. Navy. These technologically advanced vessels are built to operate effectively in both littoral and deep waters, excelling in various mission capabilities. From anti-submarine warfare to anti-surface ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations forces support, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, and mine warfare missions, the Virginia-class submarines are versatile assets.
With their inherent stealth, endurance, mobility, and firepower, these submarines directly contribute to the core capabilities outlined in the maritime strategy. These capabilities encompass sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security, and deterrence. By operating within the boundaries of international law, the submarine force plays a crucial role in fostering regional stability and preserving peace, ensuring that others can operate freely as well.
The christening of the USS Iowa (SSN 797) signifies not only the introduction of a cutting-edge submarine into the Navy's fleet but also pays tribute to the legacy and commitment of the Virginia-class submarines. This remarkable vessel stands as a testament to the Navy's dedication to innovation and its ongoing mission to protect and defend the United States and its interests worldwide.
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