USS Ted Stevens entered active service during a commissioning ceremony in Whittier, Alaska, marking the arrival of the U.S. Navy’s newest Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer.
USS Ted Stevens highlights
As the second Flight III destroyer to join the fleet, USS Ted Stevens adds significant integrated air and missile defense capacity, according to officials. The Navy said the ship enhances surface force lethality and supports priorities to maintain maritime superiority, protect contested sea lanes, and strengthen deterrence around the world.
The commissioning took place in Whittier to honor the late Senator Ted Stevens, a decorated World War II aviator and a longtime advocate for Alaska and the armed forces. The location underscores Alaska’s maritime importance and the state’s longstanding ties with the Navy, including operations managed by the U.S. Navy.
A Tlingit phrase, “Woosh-Jee-een,” meaning working together, was cited to reflect the partnership among the Navy, the Stevens family, the crew, and Alaskans.
Service and legacy of Sen. Ted Stevens
Ted Stevens flew hazardous transport missions over “The Hump” in the China-Burma-India theater during World War II, supporting the 14th Air Force “Flying Tigers.” He received two Distinguished Flying Crosses and two Air Medals.
After the war, he helped secure Alaska’s statehood in 1959 and later served in the U.S. Senate from 1968 to 2009, including as President Pro Tempore and President Pro Tempore Emeritus. He focused on modernizing the military and strengthening national security.
Crew and commissioning ceremony
During the event, Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao emphasized the crew’s central role as the ship began its commissioned service, stating the destroyer now stands ready to defend the homeland, deter aggression, and, if called upon, fight and win.
The ship’s sponsors, Catherine Ann Stevens, Susan Stevens Covich, and Lily Stevens Becker, delivered the traditional command to “Man our ship and bring her to life.” The commissioning crew then manned the rails, set the first watch, and activated the ship’s combat systems.
Lily Stevens Becker said she was honored to sponsor the ship and expressed confidence in the crew to protect the ship, support one another, and uphold national security.
The ship’s motto, “Lead with Courage,” reflects Senator Stevens’ wartime service and the combat-ready posture expected of today’s surface sailors. Capt. Mary Katey Hayes, the commanding officer, praised the crew and said they are prepared to respond to national tasking and defend freedom whether near Alaska or around the globe.
Flight III capabilities and Arctic emphasis
The Navy noted the commissioning in Whittier reflects a sustained operational presence in northern waters, from World War II’s North Pacific campaigns to current Arctic missions, to deter threats on the northern flank and protect vital sea routes.
USS Ted Stevens is centered on the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 combat system, providing a step change in simultaneous Anti-Air Warfare and Ballistic Missile Defense. The destroyer features upgraded power distribution and expanded cooling to support high-end operations and seamless integration with joint and allied forces, similar to other Aegis-equipped ships highlighted when ROKS Daeho Kim Jong-seo launched.
Next steps for USS Ted Stevens
Following post-commissioning activities, the destroyer will sail to its homeport in Norfolk, Virginia, ready for global deployment. The Navy said the commissioning underscores an ongoing effort to field advanced capability at pace to sustain forward operations year-round, including future integration with systems such as the Aegis combat system’s industry partners.