Newport News Shipbuilding hosted a rally Monday, June 1, at Pier 6 for the shipbuilders working toward a 2026 delivery for Virginia-class submarine Arkansas (SSN 800).

The rally featured remarks from Jason Ward, vice president of New Construction Submarine Programs, and Rear Adm. Jon Rucker, director, Design and Construction, Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager (DRPM), Submarines.

“We are here for two reasons,” Ward said. “First, to say ‘thank you’ for all of the work you’ve done to date to get Arkansas ready for sea. The second reason is to encourage you to continue. There is no better team on the planet than right here.”

Ward added, “The Navy is depending on us to deliver. Let me be clear – we are not advocating schedule over safety or quality. First-time quality and safety are responsibilities we all have.”

Rucker also recognized and thanked shipbuilders, then emphasized the Navy’s need for submarines across the globe.

“I want to first and foremost say ‘thank you’ for what you do. I don’t think you get enough credit. You all are the force behind the fleet,” Rucker said. “This boat is in a great position to get to sea trials and delivery. It is critical that Arkansas is completed this year.”

Rucker referenced Massachusetts (SSN 798) – which NNS delivered to the Navy last year – in his remarks, citing that the submarine has already deployed.

“The quality that you all produced was that good, for that boat to immediately deploy following new construction and do work for our nation,” he said. “We succeed – or we fail – together. This is a one team, one fight effort, and I’m telling you – we are not going to fail.”

Conner Grieff (X31), a test electrician on Arkansas, attended the rally and said he appreciated the personal touch Rucker brought to the event.

“Being on the delivery team is an amazing opportunity,” Grieff said. “I love working at the pier – troubleshooting and final testing are my favorite parts of my job. It’s very encouraging that Rucker spoke highly of our abilities as shipbuilders.”