Pence, Donnelly help christen future USS Indiana submarine

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Published: Monday, 01 May 2017 18:25

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Vice President Mike Pence and U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly helped the U.S. Navy christen its newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine Saturday (April 29), the future USS Indiana.

Pence and Donnelly provided remarks to the attendees, who included the Acting Secretary of the Navy Sean Stackley, several members of Congress, a number of the workers involved in constructing the vessel, the submarine’s sponsor Diane Donald, and several veterans who served on the battleship USS Indiana (BB-58) during World War II.

Pence said, "This USS Indiana is a worthy inheritor of the name and legacy of our state. What an honor to be part of the christening ceremony." He also added, "It is deeply humbling for this son of Indiana to be here today at the christening of this mighty and majestic boat."

The vice president also reported that more than 100 Hoosier businesses have contributed to the submarine's creation.

Donnelly, a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, said, “It was an incredible honor to participate in the christening of the latest in a proud line of Navy vessels bearing the name Indiana. The USS Indiana’s motto – “Silent Victors” – also reflects the spirit of her namesake: a state of humble but fierce patriots. Where everyday, tens of thousands of Hoosiers go to work in jobs that protect our nation, serving their country far away from the spotlight.”

 According to Huntington Ingalls, which is building the submarine in coordination with General Dynamics Electric Boat, this will be the third U.S. Navy ship to be christened with the name Indiana. Indiana will have the capability to attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. Other missions include anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare; mine delivery and minefield mapping; and special forces delivery and support. Once complete, Indiana will be 377 feet long with the ability operate at more than 25 knots while submerged.

Construction on the boat began in 2012 with 4,000 shipbuilders participating. It is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy later this year.