HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division has hosted the keel laying ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine Barb (SSN 804), marking the formal start of construction on the U.S. Navy’s newest fast-attack submarine.
NNS President Kari Wilkinson said the event represents both a ceremonial milestone and a commitment to the nation’s defence. “Our reason to come together this morning represents not only the laying down of our next submarine keel, but a solemn commitment we are making to our country,” Wilkinson said. “It marks the beginning of a construction journey, and while it is a journey measured in inches of weld, amount of pipe, and amount of cable pulled, it is fueled by the strength and determination of shipbuilders and our partners working together toward a common objective.”
SSN 804 is the third U.S. Navy submarine to carry the name Barb. The first, SS 220, was commissioned in 1942 and conducted several missions under the command of Eugene “Lucky” Fluckey during World War II, earning four Presidential Citations, a Navy Unit Commendation and eight battle stars. The second, SSN 596, was a nuclear-powered submarine commissioned in 1963. Sponsored by Marjorie Fluckey, it carried out special operations during the Vietnam War.
Pamela Bove serves as sponsor for the newest Barb. Bove began her analytical career in the submarine division at the Navy Operational Intelligence Center before moving into industry, where she met her husband Thomas Bove, grandson of Rear Adm. Fluckey. “It is an honor to serve as sponsor for Barb and see the legacy of this historic submarine carried forward to a new generation,” she said. “I am humbled knowing that the third Barb and her crew will soon serve silently in the depths of the world’s oceans and seas protecting this great nation of ours. I am grateful for the shipbuilders who are working diligently to construct this mighty vessel and all the sailors who will selflessly serve aboard her for decades to come.”
During the ceremony, NNS welder Andrew Kahler etched Bove’s initials onto a metal plate, formally recognising the keel of SSN 804 as “truly and fairly laid.” The plate will remain with the vessel for its entire service life.
Barb is the 31st Virginia-class fast-attack submarine and will be the 15th delivered by Newport News Shipbuilding. The Virginia class provides enhanced firepower, manoeuvrability and stealth to support a range of U.S. Navy missions.
