Senator Tammy Baldwin expressed pride in Wisconsin’s manufacturing legacy, stating, “When it comes to our ship building industry our workers have helped sustain America’s security for our national defense for generations.” Governor Tony Evers, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby, and Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro were among the notable speakers at the event.
Adm. Kilby highlighted the ship’s role, saying, “Beloit will play a key role in implementing the Chief of Naval Operations’ strategy as a platform with a crew ready with the right capabilities, weapons, sustainment, and training deterring our adversaries and ready to fight.” He noted Beloit’s swift achievements during initial certifications, surpassing Navy standards.
Built by Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Wisconsin, the USS Beloit was christened in 2022 and delivered to the Navy in September 2024. The vessel is designed for versatility, capable of operating in near-shore and open-ocean environments, and is equipped with advanced systems such as the Over-the-Horizon Naval Strike Missile and MK 70 Payload Delivery System for precision offensive capabilities.
Retired Army Maj. Gen. Marcia M. Anderson, the ship’s sponsor, gave the ceremonial order to “man our ship and bring her to life,” signifying the vessel’s readiness for duty. Secretary Del Toro described the event as “a celebration of American industrial might” and a tribute to Beloit’s legacy in supporting U.S. naval operations.
The ceremony was attended by veterans of past conflicts, reinforcing the ship’s connection to a tradition of honour, integrity, and sacrifice. U.S. Representative Gwen Moore remarked, “It will be the first commissioned ship named after Beloit, Wisconsin in honor of that city’s contributions to the US Navy, especially the ship engines built in that city.”
The USS Beloit, the 15th Freedom-variant littoral combat ship, is designed to support forward presence, maritime security, and sea control. The vessel will be homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, where it will continue the Navy’s mission of providing credible naval power for global operations.
