The USS Flying Fish (SSN-673) was a Sturgeon-class attack submarine serving in the United States Navy. As the third vessel to bear the name, it was named after the flying fish, known for its long winglike fins that enable it to glide through the air. The submarine was constructed by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut. The contract for its construction was awarded on July 15, 1966, and its keel was laid down on June 30, 1967. The USS Flying Fish was launched on May 17, 1969, with Mrs. John W. Harvey serving as the sponsor, honoring her as the widow of the last commanding officer of USS Thresher. The vessel was officially commissioned into service on April 29, 1970. The submarine featured the typical design of the Sturgeon class, which was known for its versatility and advanced sonar and missile capabilities, making it a significant asset during the Cold War. Throughout its operational life, the USS Flying Fish participated in various military exercises and special operations. Notably, in May 1995, it was involved in mine-laying exercises and joint service special warfare operations, including an operational test launch of a Tomahawk cruise missile, demonstrating its tactical versatility and missile launching capabilities. The USS Flying Fish was decommissioned on May 16, 1996, and promptly stricken from the Naval Vessel Register. Its dismantling was carried out through the Nuclear-Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington, with the recycling process completed by October 15, 1996. The vessel's service reflects its role as a Cold War-era attack submarine, contributing to U.S. naval strategic operations during its 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.