Massachusetts Christened at Newport News Shipbuilding

“This is a very exciting day for the Navy and the shipbuilding community.” NNS Vice President, Virginia-Class Submarine Construction

HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division welcomed media to the shipyard on Friday, May 5 for a media day ahead of the christening ceremony for Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798).

Media members were able to tour the event site and talk with NNS leadership, shipbuilders, the commanding officer of PCU Massachusetts, and ship’s sponsor Sheryl Sandberg.

To learn more about Massachusetts (SSN 798), visit HII.com/SSN798.

Check out coverage from WTKR, WAVY, WHRO and the story from 13News Now below.

Navy to christen submarine Massachusetts Saturday at Newport News Shipbuilding

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — When the future USS Massachusetts (SSN 798) is completed -- hopefully in 2024 -- it will become the Navy's 25th Virginia-class submarine.

It's a product that has stood the test of time, and a source of great pride for the sailors who crew them.

"I mean, the Virginia-class submarines incorporate all of the latest and greatest technology. They are our quietest ship. They're our most stealthy ship. They provide combatant commanders the most lethal combat power," said Commander Mike Siedsma, the Massachusetts' commanding officer.

Saturday's christening ceremony arrives with the $2.8 billion nuclear-powered Massachusetts' construction said to be around 80% complete.

The shipbuilders are thrilled to have reached this point.

"Oh, it's very amazing! Just the pride I feel over the completion of this vessel," said Marine Painter Mary Cupp.

Click here to read the full story from 13News Now.

HII CHRISTENS VIRGINIA-CLASS ATTACK SUBMARINE MASSACHUSETTS (SSN 798)

NEWPORT NEWS, Va., (May 6, 2023) — HII (NYSE: HII) today christened the Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) at the company’s Newport News Shipbuilding division.