HII Celebrates Christening of New Amphibious Transport Dock in Mississippi
Pascagoula, Saturday, 11 January 2025.
Huntington Ingalls Industries marked a milestone by christening the Harrisburg (LPD 30), enhancing U.S. Navy capabilities, at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula on January 11, 2025.
Significant Naval Milestone
Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE: HII), America’s largest military shipbuilder [1], celebrated a pivotal moment in naval shipbuilding with the christening of the USS Harrisburg (LPD 30). The ceremony took place at the company’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division in Pascagoula, Mississippi [1]. As the 14th San Antonio-class ship and the first Flight II variant in its class, the Harrisburg represents a significant advancement in amphibious warfare capabilities [1].
Ceremonial Highlights
The christening ceremony featured distinguished co-sponsors Alexandra Curry from Middletown, Pennsylvania, and Jennifer Díaz from Philadelphia, who performed the traditional bottle-breaking ritual [1]. Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette emphasized the event’s significance, describing it as ‘more than just a christening’ but a celebration of craftsmanship and commitment [1]. Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Christopher Mahoney highlighted the vessel’s strategic importance, noting its role in maintaining ‘persistent presence forward’ to address what he termed a ‘generational challenge and contest’ [1].
Future Naval Operations
The Harrisburg, named in honor of Pennsylvania’s capital city, is designed to support both expeditionary warfare and humanitarian missions [1]. The vessel’s construction represents part of a broader naval expansion, with HII currently working on additional vessels including the Pittsburgh (LPD 31) and preliminary work on Philadelphia (LPD 32) [1]. The U.S. Navy’s commitment to this ship class was further demonstrated in September 2024 when contracts were awarded for LPDs 33-35 [1].
Industrial Achievement
With a workforce of 44,000 employees and a rich 135-year history in national security [1], HII’s delivery of this vessel showcases American naval engineering excellence. The company’s track record includes the successful delivery of LPDs 17-29, establishing a strong foundation for the Flight II program [1]. Rear Admiral Tom Anderson, program executive officer for ships, extended his congratulations to both the sailors and shipbuilders involved in the Harrisburg’s creation [1].