HII has launched the Virginia-class submarine Arkansas (SSN 800) into the James River from its Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) facility. The launch marks a key milestone in the construction of the U.S. Navy’s latest nuclear-powered attack submarine.
The vessel was moved from the construction facility to a floating dry dock, then launched and transferred by tugboats to a nearby submarine pier. It will now undergo final outfitting, testing, and crew certification.
The Arkansas is the 27th submarine in the Virginia-class series and the 13th to be built at the Newport News yard. Once completed, it will join the fleet with capabilities designed to support a range of naval missions, including enhanced stealth, maneuverability, and firepower.
The submarine’s sponsors are the six women of the Little Rock Nine — the historic group of African American students who integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, during the 1950s.
The Virginia-class program is a collaboration between HII and General Dynamics Electric Boat, supporting the U.S. Navy’s undersea warfare strategy.