NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Aug. 27, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HII HI IAmerica’s only manufacturer of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and a leader in mission-directed defense technology, celebrated the aircraft carrier’s keel-laying ceremony company (CVN 80) today at the Newport News Shipbuilding Division.

US Olympic champions Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky are the ship’s sponsors. Ledecky attended in person while Biles attended via video as the pair marked the important first milestone in the aircraft carrier’s construction.

During the ceremony, Biles and Ledecky’s initials were welded onto a steel plate that will be permanently attached to the ship, symbolizing the sponsors’ enduring relationship with the shipbuilders and crew.

In his remarks, Undersecretary of State for the Navy Erik Raven stressed the importance of aircraft carriers and urged shipbuilders to recognize the importance of what they are building.

“Our aircraft carriers would not be possible without the designers and builders here at Newport News Shipbuilding,” Raven said. “Every team member here at Newport News can rest assured that every steel cut, wrench turned and construction challenge has been a step in enhancing our maritime and national greatness – especially as this ship sails the open seas to protect our nation’s interests.” .”

Photos accompanying this press release are available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-keel-ceremony-aircraft-carrier-enterprise-cvn-80.

NNS President Jennifer Boykin spoke highly of the skilled shipbuilders who build companyemphasizing their commitment to the Navy and our nation as the only shipyard capable of building nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.

“These hardworking women and men take 100,000 tons of steel and technology and not only make it float, but serve as a home, workplace and protective shield for our Navy’s sailors,” Boykin told the crowd. “Shipbuilding requires discipline, precision and a relentless pursuit of excellence that we…