US Navy: Keel laid for Virginia-class attack submarine USS Barb

December 10, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) has held a keel-laying ceremony for Virginia-class attack submarine USS Barb (SSN 804).

SSN 804 will be the third US Navy submarine to carry the name Barb. The first, SS 220, was commissioned in 1942. During World War II, the submarine conducted missions under the command of Eugene “Lucky” Fluckey, earning the submarine four Presidential Citations, a Navy Unit Commendation, and eight battle stars for outstanding service.

The second, SSN 596, was a nuclear-powered submarine commissioned in 1963. The submarine took part in special operations during the Vietnam War.

USS Barb is the 31st Virginia-class fast attack submarine and will be the 15th delivered by NNS. The advanced capabilities of Virginia-class submarines increase firepower, maneuverability, and stealth.

The keel-laying ceremony took place on December 9, 2025.

“It marks the beginning of a construction journey, and while it is a journey measured in inches of weld, amount of pipe, and amount of cable pulled, it is fueled by the strength and determination of shipbuilders and our partners working together toward a common objective,” NNS President Kari Wilkinson said.

Pamela Bove serves as the ship’s sponsor for the newest Barb. Bove began her analytical career working as a civilian within the submarine division at the Navy Operational Intelligence Center. She married Thomas “Tom” Bove, grandson of Rear Adm. Fluckey.

“It is an honor to serve as sponsor for Barb and see the legacy of this historic submarine carried forward to a new generation,” Bove said.

HII recently teamed up with defense major Babcock to support the construction of Virginia-class submarines. The goal of the agreement is to increase the throughput at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division. Additionally, the contract will build resiliency within HII’s submarine supply base.