BOSTON (RTWNEWS) — The USS Massachusetts was commissioned into the U.S. Navy fleet on Saturday, marking a historic milestone as the first submarine named after the Bay State.
This new Virginia-class fast attack submarine can dive to depths greater than 800 feet (240 meters) and cost over $2.8 billion to build. It was launched on May 6, 2023, with Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta, serving as the ship's sponsor. The USS Massachusetts is the 25th Virginia-Class submarine co-produced by General Dynamics Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding and the fifth U.S. Navy vessel to be named after Massachusetts.
“It’s amazing to see a ship built from scratch, trained with our team, and brought into Boston Harbor for the first time,” said the commanding officer, Mike Siedsma, a seasoned sailor with 21 years of experience across four different submarine classes. He noted that the last time a submarine entered Boston Harbor was as far back as the late '80s or early '90s.
While Siedsma did not reveal the sub's first destination, the geopolitical climate has made every new deployment significant. Relying on the submarine's capabilities, he highlighted the role of the U.S. Navy in demonstrating American power on the global stage.
With a crew of 147, including 39 women, the USS Massachusetts marks a pivotal moment in naval history, emphasizing inclusion and representation. “Twenty-five percent of the crew is female,” Sandberg remarked, highlighting their role in inspiring future generations.
The Kansas-class submarine, which is designed to operate with a diverse crew, is also a reminder of Massachusetts' rich historical role in U.S. independence and civic duties, with Sandberg reflecting on the ongoing efforts for freedom that relate back to the original colonists.
The USS Massachusetts' commissioning ceremony was layered with history, artistry, and innovation, setting a new course for future naval operations and community engagement.
