The ship was launched on 27 August 1983 at Electric Boat Shipyard, Groton, Connecticut and commissioned on 21 July 1984 at Naval Submarine Base, Groton, Connecticut.Her principle missions are to: conduct offensive strikes against land targets; operate against enemy submarines and surface ships; conduct mining operations; deploy Naval special warfare teams and conduct covert surveillance.

Surpassing the underwater capabilities of any class of ship before her, Rickover carries detection, communications, navigation, propulsion and computerized weapons systems of the most advanced design. For months, she can cruise quietly submerged with a maximum of comfort for her crew, and with an ever ready potential to deliver any submarine tactical weapon the Navy possesses against submerged or surface targets. When coupled with the talents of a well-trained crew, Rickover provides a tactical capability of major importance to our nation's defense.