The USS Ohio is named after the U.S. state of Ohio. This naming tradition follows a long-standing practice within the United States Navy for its significant vessels.
Evolution of U.S. Navy Naming Conventions
Historically, names of U.S. states were exclusively reserved for battleships, reflecting their status as the premier warships. However, as the U.S. Navy ceased building battleships after World War II, this naming convention transitioned. Today, state names are primarily assigned to missile submarines, signifying their crucial role in the modern fleet.
The USS Ohio (SSGN-726) is the lead vessel of its type, which led to the entire class of submarines being known as the Ohio-class. All ships within this class are also named after U.S. states, continuing the tradition established by the lead ship.