Navy Announces Future Nuclear-Powered Submarine Will Be Named USS Baltimore

Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro announced the naming of the future nuclear-powered Virginia-class ship, SSN 812, during a ceremony Friday. The ship will be named USS Baltimore.

“The City of Baltimore maintains strong ties to our naval services and is a key enabler of our National Maritime Statecraft,” Del Toro said. “It is an honor and privilege to announce the naming of the next Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, SSN-812, USS Baltimore.”

Maryland State Senator Ben Cardin joined Del Toro at the ceremony, held aboard the historic USS Constellation.

“Maryland is proud of our relationship with the Navy and our strong history as a maritime state,” Cardin said. “I am excited that the next USS Baltimore will once again sail the seas as the Navy’s newest submarine.”

The city of Baltimore has a significant connection to American and Navy history. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott spoke about the honor and significance of naming the Navy’s newest submarine.

“We are honored to once again have Baltimore represented around the world through the naming of this future ship,” said Scott. “As a city with such a rich naval and maritime history, naming the USS Baltimore ensures that the legacy will live on for decades to come. I want to express my deepest thanks and gratitude to the U.S. Navy for this honor and for continuing to lift up our city, including all Baltimoreans who choose to serve.”

The Navy says the Virginia-class submarines feature innovations that increase firepower, maneuverability and stealth. They are capable of serving multiple mission areas and can operate at speeds of more than 25 knots for months at a time.