IPI Products Launched Aboard USS Iowa Submarine

This past week, the U.S. Navy officially commissioned the USS Iowa SSN 797, a Virginia-class attack submarine, one of only 24 deployed to date. These submarines are built to replace older Los Angeles-class models as they’re retired, and are designed to seek and destroy enemy watercraft, carry out intelligence missions, engage in mine warfare, among other purposes. You may be wondering, “When did IPI start building nuclear subs as part of their job training program?” While that may be a bit out of our wheelhouse, IPI was given the unique opportunity to produce commemorative plaques and interior signage to be installed aboard the historic vessel.

IPI was contacted by the USS Iowa commissioning committee with the hopes of getting products produced within the State onboard. Naturally, the next step was to start production on the order: 170 engraved Iowa plaques and 153 custom license plate signs. Each of the plaques was engraved with the name and position of the individual crew members, as well as the USS Iowa logo. Each plaque also features a couple special slogans: “Fear the Ghost” pays tribute to the USS Iowa BB-61, aka “The Grey Ghost,” which famously served in WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War. “Protecting the Freedom to Flourish” references the State slogan coined by Gov. Kim Reynolds in 2023.

The 153 license plate signs were commissioned to replicate the classic Iowa license plate design. Several of the signs bear unique labels as they are used to mark different rooms on the submarine. Where you would find the county name on a real license plate, you will see one of multiple messages such as “Fear the Ghost” or "Fight for Iowa" printed on every sign.

It’s not every day that IPI is able to provide our products and services for a project with this much national attention and intrigue. We’re proud to have been trusted to create these products for the USS Iowa’s commissioning, an event not only significant to our great state, but our country as well.