Navy Commissions New Submarine Named After Massachusetts

The USS Massachusetts (SSN 798) is the 25th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine to join the fleet.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 7:08am

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The U.S. Navy will commission the 25th Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, the future USS Massachusetts (SSN 798), during a ceremony on Saturday, March 28th at 10 a.m. EDT in Boston Harbor. The ceremony will feature remarks from Navy leadership, government officials, and the submarine's sponsor, Sheryl Sandberg.

Why it matters

The commissioning of the USS Massachusetts underscores the Navy's ongoing commitment to maintaining a robust submarine fleet capable of meeting a wide range of missions. Virginia-class submarines like the USS Massachusetts bring enhanced stealth, surveillance, and special warfare capabilities to support the Navy's global operations.

The details

The USS Massachusetts is the 7th Block IV Virginia-class submarine, built through a partnership between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding. At 7,800 tons and 377 feet long, the submarine is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during its planned service life.

  • The commissioning ceremony will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 10 a.m. EDT.

The players

David Denton

General Counsel of the Navy, who will deliver the ceremony's principal address.

Maura Healey

The Governor of Massachusetts.

William Houston

Admiral and director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.

Seth Moulton

U.S. Representative from Massachusetts.

Kari Wilkinson

President of Newport News Shipbuilding.

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What they’re saying

“The commissioning of the USS Massachusetts underscores the Navy's commitment to building America's Golden Fleet. For 250 years, American naval power has projected strength globally. That mission continues - and intensifies.”

— William Houston, Admiral, Director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program

What’s next

The USS Massachusetts will formally enter active service following the commissioning ceremony, joining the Navy's fleet of Virginia-class fast-attack submarines.

The takeaway

The commissioning of the USS Massachusetts is a significant milestone for the U.S. Navy, underscoring its ongoing efforts to maintain a technologically advanced and capable submarine force to support national security interests around the world.