Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The contract to build "Sand Lance" was awarded to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard at Kittery, Maine, on 24 October 1963 and her keel was laid down there on 15 January 1965. She was launched on 11 November 1969, sponsored by Mrs. Thomas J. McIntyre, and commissioned on 25 September 1971 with Commander William A. Kennington in command. "Sand Lance" was the last ship to be constructed for the Navy at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.