In a ceremony held on December 7, 2024, Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) christened the Virginia-class submarine Arkansas (SSN 800) at its Newport News Shipbuilding division. This event commemorates a significant advancement in shipbuilding and is a tribute to the bravery and determination of those who, like the Little Rock Nine, contributed to America’s fundamental values of freedom and equality.
Six female members of the Little Rock Nine were the submarine’s sponsors. Source: HII
A Virginia-class submarine honors historic courage
The Virginia-class submarine is the 27th of this advanced class, known for its nuclear propulsion capabilities and superior maneuverability in the oceans. However, the christening of the Arkansas was much more than just a military ceremony. The figure of the Arkansas is a symbol of perseverance, reflected in the figures of the six women who were the submarine’s sponsors, all members of the Little Rock Nine . Pioneers of school desegregation, these women have been a source of inspiration for current generations.
Details of the christening of the Arkansas
The event was marked by the presence of Carlotta Walls LaNier, who, on behalf of her fellow sailors, performed the traditional act of breaking a bottle of sparkling wine on the bow of the submarine. In her speech, LaNier highlighted the deep respect for the shipbuilders who made this achievement possible.
Each of you, through your dedication and effort, has contributed to making this submarine a reality.
LaNier commented.
The Arkansas is the first of the submarines of this class to be named in honor of the desegregation events in Little Rock, Arkansas. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro emphasized the importance of this historical connection:
The submarine Arkansas represents the best of our submarine force’s capabilities and will forever be inspired by the legacy of the Little Rock Nine.
With HII as the leader in submarine shipbuilding, Arkansas joins an increasingly powerful and capable fleet. This submarine, like others in the Virginia class, offers advanced capabilities to perform naval defense missions and ensure the maritime protection of U.S. interests around the world.
Technological advances in the construction of submarines like the Arkansas ensure that the U.S. Navy maintains its leadership in the field of submarine defense.
This christening is just one of many stages in the process that leads to a submarine becoming a vital asset to the U.S. naval fleet. With each new submarine that is commissioned, the U.S. Navy ensures its ability to operate effectively around the world, maintaining its commitment to global security and international freedom.
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Source and photos: HII