Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) recently announced the successful launch of the Virginia-class submarine Arkansas (SSN 800) at its Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division. This significant milestone took place as shipbuilders transferred the submarine from a construction facility to the floating dry dock, where it was launched and moved by tugboats to a submarine pier at the shipyard for final outfitting, testing, and crew certification.

The sponsors of the ship are the six women of the historic group known as the Little Rock Nine. These women were the first African American students to attend the all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, during desegregation. Their sponsorship adds a meaningful and symbolic touch to the launch of the USS Arkansas.

Arkansas is the 27th Virginia-class submarine and will be the 13th delivered by NNS. The Virginia-class submarines are known for their advanced capabilities, including increased firepower, maneuverability, and stealth. These submarines play a crucial role in the defense and security of the United States.