The USS Baltimore (SSN-704) was a Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarine of the United States Navy, notable for being the sixth vessel to bear the name honoring Baltimore, Maryland. As a Los Angeles-class submarine, she was designed for a combination of fast, stealthy underwater operations, and versatility in various mission profiles. Constructed by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut, the contract for her build was awarded on October 31, 1973. Her keel was laid down on May 21, 1979, marking the start of her physical construction. She was launched on December 13, 1980, with Congresswoman Marjorie S. Holt serving as her sponsor during the launching ceremony. The vessel was officially commissioned into the Navy on July 24, 1982, entering service with the fleet. The USS Baltimore’s emblem bore the inscription "From Sails to Atoms," reflecting the evolution of naval power from traditional sailing ships to advanced nuclear submarines. Although specific operational details are not provided, her service spanned over 15 years, during which she contributed to naval readiness and undersea warfare capabilities. She was decommissioned and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on July 10, 1998. Following her decommissioning, Baltimore was scheduled for disposal through the Nuclear Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program in Bremerton, Washington, a process designed to safely dismantle nuclear vessels. Overall, USS Baltimore (SSN-704) exemplifies the technological advancement and strategic importance of nuclear-powered submarines in the late 20th century U.S. Navy, serving as a vital component of naval defense and undersea operations during her active years.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.