USS Ted Stevens Commissioned in Alaska to Honor Late Senator’s Legacy

Thousands of attendees, Navy leadership, and Alaska’s congressional delegation gathered in Whittier to commission the USS Ted Stevens, a newly operational warship honoring the decades of public service provided by the late Alaska senator. The ceremony established the Arleigh Burke-class Flight III destroyer within the U.S. Navy fleet, linking the state’s maritime heritage directly to modern national defense operations.

Whittier Ceremony Commissions New Warship

The commissioning events in Whittier brought together family members, military officials, and regional lawmakers to officially integrate the vessel into active service. Catherine Ann Stevens, the late senator’s wife, along with his daughters Susan Stevens Covich and Lily Stevens Becker, serve as the ship’s official sponsors. The selection of Whittier for the ceremony highlighted Alaska’s vital maritime traditions and the deep partnership shared between the state and the U.S. Navy. The vessel’s homeport is established in Norfolk, Virginia, following the completion of its commissioning.

USS Ted Stevens Features Advanced Air and Missile Defense

The USS Ted Stevens is equipped with the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar, alongside upgraded electrical power and cooling capacities designed to enhance operational capabilities across the fleet. Advanced sensors and weapons systems provide the vessel with high-end air and missile defense capabilities. Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao stated that the warship is prepared to counter aggression and safeguard national interests by delivering a powerful advantage at sea. Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations, emphasized that the ship gives the fleet greater capacity to track and defeat threats throughout the maritime domain.

Navy Expands Security Presence in Northern Waters

The arrival of the destroyer coincides with an increased focus on military infrastructure and security in northern waters. Sen. Dan Sullivan pointed to the ongoing need for expanded military and Coast Guard installations across Alaska, noting that advocates continue to push for the return of a dedicated Navy base in the region. The Navy maintains a persistent operational presence in Alaska through high-latitude security patrols, cold-weather training, and joint-force exercises designed to project naval power and defend northern sea lanes.

Legacy of a WWII Pilot and Lawmaker

Senator Ted Stevens served in the U.S. Senate from December 1968 until January 2009, holding the position of president pro tempore in the 108th and 109th Congresses. Before his legislative career, he was a decorated World War II Army Air Corps pilot who earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for flying transport missions over “The Hump” in the China-Burma-India theater. Rep. Nick Begich noted that the sailors serving aboard the newly commissioned destroyer will carry forward that history of service and determination.

Following its commissioning in Whittier, the USS Ted Stevens departs for its homeport in Norfolk, Virginia, carrying advanced integrated air and missile defense capabilities into the active U.S. Navy fleet.