Future USS Delaware (SSN 791) Keel Laying
Channel: U.S. Navy
Date: 01/05/2016

DescriptionA keel-laying ceremony was held April 30, 2016, for the U.S. Navy's future USS Delaware (SSN 791) in Newport News, Va., signifying the ceremonial start of construction for the Virginia-class submarine.

During the ceremony, the initials of ship sponsor Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden and a native of Delaware, were welded onto a steel plate that will be permanently affixed to the submarine, symbolizing her lifelong relationship with the shipbuilders and crew. (U.S. Navy video courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries)