WASHINGTON — A new U.S. Navy submarine will be named for the Mermaid City, the Navy said Tuesday.
The future USS Norfolk (SSN 815), a Virginia-class submarine, honors the city — home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval station — and three former Navy vessels.
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“Today’s submarine force is the most capable force in the world and in the history of U.S. Navy,” said Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro. “It is my honor and privilege to announce the names of the future submarines which will protect us from deep below the ocean’s waves.”
Virginia-class subs are replacing the Los Angeles-class with enhanced warfighting capabiltiies, the Navy says, meant for littoral operations.
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Ann Holton, who is married to Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, has been selected as the ship sponsor of the future USS Norfolk.
“I am so honored to have been named the sponsor for the USS Norfolk VIrginia class submarine—especially because my father was a submariner in World War II. I look forward to sharing his stories with the USS Norfolk’s future sailors. I am so grateful to Secretary Del Toro for this very special opportunity.”
