Ingalls Shipbuilding Authenticates Keel of Future USS Philadelphia

The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship is the latest in a series of Flight II vessels under construction at the Mississippi shipyard.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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HII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division has authenticated the keel for the future USS Philadelphia (LPD 32), a Flight II San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship. The ceremony included ship sponsor Maureen Paparo, a Philadelphia native, who was joined by her spouse, Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, as well as HII executives and U.S. Navy officials.

Why it matters

The San Antonio-class ships are a cornerstone of the Navy's 21st-century expeditionary force, supporting Marine and Navy operations in humanitarian aid, disaster relief, maritime security and military missions. Ingalls Shipbuilding is the sole builder of these vessels, having delivered 13 to the U.S. Navy so far.

The details

During the keel authentication ceremony, Ingalls Structural Welder Cory Dillon etched the sponsor's initials into a ceremonial steel plate, a naval tradition symbolizing the start of construction. The Philadelphia will be one of three Flight II San Antonio-class ships currently under construction at Ingalls, designed to replace aging dock landing ships.

  • The keel authentication ceremony took place on March 3, 2026.

The players

Maureen Paparo

The ship sponsor for the USS Philadelphia and a Philadelphia native.

Adm. Samuel Paparo

The commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the spouse of Maureen Paparo.

Chris Kastner

The president and CEO of HII.

Brian Blanchette

The president of Ingalls Shipbuilding.

Cory Dillon

An Ingalls Structural Welder who etched the sponsor's initials into a ceremonial steel plate.

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What they’re saying

“Today we mark an extraordinary moment in the construction of the future USS Philadelphia. Every part we add to this ship — from the smallest weld to the largest grand block — reflects the skill and dedication of our Ingalls shipbuilders and our shared commitment to the sailors and Marines who will one day rely on her. Their mission is our purpose, and we are honored to support the warfighter by delivering a ship worthy of the name Philadelphia.”

— Brian Blanchette, Ingalls Shipbuilding president (businessinsider.com)

“Being part of this ship's connection to my hometown means everything to me. One day, this ship will add her own threads to the story of our Navy, our Marine Corps and our nation. I am in awe of what the incredible workforce here does every day. Your skill, your diligence and your dedication will ensure the safety of over 700 sailors and Marines who will serve aboard this great ship.”

— Maureen Paparo, Ship sponsor (businessinsider.com)

“Philadelphia will be one of the most versatile platforms in the fleet, and I have a special appreciation for each shipyard worker that is a part of the team that will support this vessel for 40 years. It's really a special day for Maureen and I. Maureen has built a foundation in faith, in family and in hard work. She knows firsthand what it takes to keep a fleet running, and it's my very great honor and privilege to introduce her as the sponsor of USS Philadelphia.”

— Adm. Samuel Paparo, Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (businessinsider.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.