The USS Massachusetts, the first submarine named after the state, officially joined the US Navy fleet on Saturday following a commissioning ceremony. The Virginia-class fast attack submarine, capable of diving deeper than 800 feet, was christened on May 6, 2023, with former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg serving as its sponsor.
It is the 25th Virginia-class submarine co-produced by General Dynamics Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding, and the fifth US Navy vessel to bear the name Massachusetts. The submarine cost over $2.8 billion, weighs about 8,000 tons, and can carry 24 Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Commanding Officer Mike Siedsma, a 21-year Navy veteran, expressed pride in bringing the submarine to Boston Harbor for the first time, noting that no submarine had visited since the late 1980s or early 1990s. He declined to disclose the vessel's future destination but highlighted its role in demonstrating US naval power amid a complex geopolitical landscape.
The crew of 147 includes 39 women, reflecting the Navy's integration of female sailors since the ban on women serving on submarines was lifted 16 years ago. Sandberg praised the design of the submarine, which accommodates both men and women, and noted that 25% of the crew is female, inspiring young girls to pursue any career.
During a tour, reporters saw the control room, torpedo room, and dining hall. The ward room features a mug rack made from wood donated by counties in Massachusetts, a contribution from the television show 'This Old House.'
