Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro gives remarks the commissioning ceremony of USS New Jersey (SSN-796) on Sept. 14, 2024. (William Bennett IV/U.S. Navy)

The future Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine SSN 812 will be named USS Baltimore, secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced Friday during a ship naming ceremony in Baltimore.

“The city of Baltimore maintains a strong connection with our maritime services and is a critical enabler of our National Maritime Statecraft,” Del Toro. “It is my honor and privilege to announce the name of the next Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, SSN-812, USS Baltimore.” 

Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin joined Del Toro for the ceremony, held aboard the historic USS Constellation.

“Maryland is proud of our connection to the Navy and our strong history as a coastal state,” Cardin saud. “I am excited that the next USS Baltimore will be sailing the seas again as the Navy’s newest submarine.”

The city of Baltimore has significant ties to American and Naval history. Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott touched on the honor and meaning behind the naming of the Navy’s newest submarine.

“We are honored that Baltimore is being represented across the globe once again with the naming of this future ship,” Scott said. “As a city with such a rich naval and maritime history, the naming of the USS Baltimore ensures that legacy will continue to live on for decades to come. I want to extend my deepest thanks and gratitude to the U.S. Navy for this honor and for continuing to uplift our city, including all Baltimoreans who choose to serve.”

Virginia-class submarines incorporate innovations that increase firepower, maneuverability and stealth, according to the Navy. They are capable of supporting multiple mission areas and can operate at speeds of more than 25 knots for months at a time.