HII Launches Virginia-Class Submarine USS Arkansas (SSN 800) at Newport News
Newport News, Virginia, July 2, 2025 – Defense industry giant HII (NYSE: HII) announced the launch of the USS Arkansas (SSN 800), a Virginia-class submarine, at its Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) facilities. The operation marked a significant milestone in the construction of the vessel, which is vital to the U.S. Navy’s fleet of nuclear-powered submarines.
The maneuver involved transferring the submarine from the construction facility to a floating dry dock, from which it was launched into the James River. Tugboats then moved the vessel to a specialized submarine pier at the shipyard, where it will undergo final outfitting, testing, and crew certification.
“We are committed to increasing submarine construction cadence and throughput for the U.S. Navy,” said Bryan Caccavale, NNS Vice President of Navy Programs. “Nuclear-powered submarines are critical to national security, and we are proud to see Arkansas in the water.”
A unique aspect of the USS Arkansas is its historical connection to civil rights: its sponsors are the six women from the historic group known as the Little Rock Nine—the first African American students to attend Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, during desegregation.
The USS Arkansas is the 27th Virginia-class submarine and will be the 13th delivered by Newport News Shipbuilding. The Virginia-class incorporates advanced technologies that increase firepower, maneuverability, and stealth, cementing its strategic role in U.S. naval operations.
About HII
HII is the largest military shipbuilder in the United States, with a history spanning more than 135 years dedicated to national security. The company operates across multiple domains, including naval systems, unmanned vehicles, cybersecurity, intelligence, AI-based systems, and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HII employs around 44,000 people worldwide.
