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The USS Indiana is the newest, most modern and sophisticated attack submarine in the world. It is the Navy’s 16th Virginia-class attack submarine, a class of nuclear-powered submarines designed for both open ocean and shallow coastal missions. The commissioning of this marvel of technology and innovation will take place Sept. 29 in Port Canaveral, Florida.
The commissioning, a ceremonial joining of a ship and her namesake, will mark the official entry of the USS Indiana to the Navy’s fleet. The submarine will be given a grand send-off as she joins the world’s most powerful Navy.
Commissioning a new Naval vessel is a big deal, and when it’s the USS Indiana, Hoosiers can take special pride in being a big part of the process. Here are some inspirational comments written in a letter to the officers and crew of the USS Indiana by Richard V. Spencer, secretary of the Navy.
“This Virginia-class submarine is the third vessel to bear the name of the great state of Indiana. The previous USS Indiana served with distinction in World War II, earning nine battle stars. I am certain that your boat and crew will continue that tradition of excellence and represent the citizens of Indiana with honor.
“USS Indiana enters service in a period of dynamic security challenges with many growing global threats. Today’s world requires undersea platforms designed for dominance across a broad spectrum of regional and littoral missions. … I am confident Indiana will proudly serve in defense of our nation’s interests for decades to come.”
Vice President Mike Pence offers, “This submarine is the most advanced to ever serve America. The steel within her skeleton—all 7,600 tons—and the steel in the hearts of her crew form the unbreakable, unshakeable backbone of American freedom.”
The Navy named the sub Indiana in April 2012, the keel laying and construction officially started in May 2015, the christening was in April 2017 and the crew moved aboard the boat this past April.
The vessel was built at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News, Virginia. Virginia-class submarines are built under a unique teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News.
Here are a few more interesting facts about the USS Indiana provided by Navy Live, the official blog of the Navy. Many of the parts that went into building Indiana were originally made by companies located here in Indiana. It is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the boat.
The USS Indiana uses an advanced periscope called a photonics mast. The mast contains a camera that allows many tactical advantages when submerged. Indiana is one of the first boats to use a new and improved joystick controller to maneuver this mast rather than the traditional periscope hydraulic column. This allows multiple individuals to see what the scope sees.
It’s been educational and inspirational learning about the USS Indiana. Knowing I’m being protected by the most powerful and technologically advanced submarine on the planet, along with the entire Navy fleet reminds me why I’m proud to be an American. And knowing that Indiana is the namesake for this magnificent vessel reminds me why I’m proud to be a Hoosier.•
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Morris is publisher of IBJ. His column appears every other week. To comment, send email to gmorris@ibj.com.
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