The submarine was placed in the water on 20 November 2009, and christened on 5 December 2009. Missouris sponsor is Becky Gates, wife of Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.
On 20 November 2009, the submarine was placed in the water for launching ceremonies, and it was christened on 5 December 2009. The sponsor of the submarine, Missouri, is Becky Gates, who is also the wife of Secretary of Defense Robert Gates.