US Navy christens 17th Virginia-class submarine USS South Dakota

The US Navy has christened its 17th Virginia-class attack submarine, the future USS South Dakota (SSN 790).

The christening ceremony took place at General Dynamics Electric Boat Shipyard in Groton, Connecticut on Saturday, October 14.

South Dakota, a Virginia-class submarine designated SSN 790, is the third ship to bear the state’s name. The second ship was a battleship that stood as the lead ship of her class and earned 13 battle stars during her extensive service in the Pacific theater during World War II.

The ship began construction in 2013 and is contracted to deliver in August 2018. South Dakota will provide the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation’s undersea superiority well into the 21st century.

“Today’s christening of South Dakota brings this submarine one step closer to joining our strong fleet,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “For decades to come, this boat and the Sailors who will serve on it will stand as a tribute to the patriotic people of South Dakota and a testament to the value of the partnership between the Department of the Navy and our industry teammates.”

Last week, on October 8, the US Navy commissioned Huntington Ingalls Industries-built USS Washington, the 14th boat in the class.