USS Barb Under Construction at Newport News Shipbuilding
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The U.S. Navy is making significant strides in expanding its fleet with the construction of the future USS Barb, a Virginia-class attack submarine. The keel laying ceremony for this vital addition took place in December 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the submarine’s development. Newport News Shipbuilding is spearheading the project, with President Kari Wilkinson emphasizing the collaborative efforts of industry and Navy partners. “Our extended team will work together to bring this submarine to life,” she stated, highlighting the importance of teamwork in this complex process.
The USS Barb is set to play a crucial role in addressing the Navy’s ongoing challenges with maintaining its nuclear-powered attack submarines. According to a report from the U.S. Naval Institute in January 2024, the Navy has struggled for over a decade to maintain these vessels effectively. Despite attempts to resolve these maintenance issues with legacy tools, the operational availability of submarines has continued to decline. Rear Admiral Casey Moton of the U.S. Navy underscored the significance of submarines, stating they serve as “silent sentinels of our seas,” providing strategic deterrence and gathering critical intelligence.
Legacy and Community Engagement
The USS Barb is the third submarine to carry this historic name, continuing a family legacy that dates back to the original USS Barb. The ship’s sponsor, Pamela Bove, is connected to the submarine’s history through her family. She is the wife of the grandson of the commander of the first USS Barb, while her husband’s grandmother sponsored the second vessel. Bove expressed her excitement about the experience, stating, “It’s an experience like no other.” She, along with her niece, who is also a co-sponsor, plans to engage with the crew by sending care packages and making port visits when possible.
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The construction of the USS Barb is not just a technical endeavor; it also fosters community involvement. Andrew Khaler, a shipyard welder, had the honor of welding Bove’s initials into the keel plate. He described the moment as “spectacular,” emphasizing the pride felt by the entire shipyard team. As of January 2026, the USS Barb is expected to take several years to complete, reflecting the complexity and importance of this project for the U.S. Navy.
The construction of the USS Barb represents a significant commitment to enhancing the Navy’s capabilities and maintaining its strategic edge. As the project progresses, it will not only contribute to national defense but also honor the legacy of those who served on previous vessels bearing the Barb name.
