Names confirmed for five future US Navy ships

US Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite has confirmed the official selection of names for three surface warships, a submarine, and a towing and salvage vessel that will enter service in the future with the US Navy.

The surface warships include a Constellation-class frigate, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, and a Montford Point-class expeditionary sea base (ESB). These will be named USS Chesepeake, USS Pittsburgh, and USS Robert E. Simanek, respectively.

The ESB will honour Robert E. Simanek, a US Marine who was awarded America’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his actions during the Korean War.

Meanwhile, the 34th Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine will be named USS Silversides after a species of ray-finned fish. It will also be the third US Navy submarine to bear the name.

Lastly, a future Navajo-class towing and salvage vessel will be named USNS Lenni Lenape after a tribe of indigenous people of the Northeastern Woodlands encompassing the northeastern US and southeastern Canada. This will be the first instance a US Navy vessel will be named after the said tribe.