The Naval Sea Systems Command has recently certified a lower-cost alternative steel to the HY-80 steel presently used in construction of naval surface ships. This alternative steel is based on the commercial development of high strength low alloy (HSLA) steels originally directed to the offshore oil exploration platform and gas line transmission industries. The certification is a result of an ongoing research and development program begun in 1980. This paper addresses several aspects of the HSLA steel development effort, including a discussion of the properties and metallurgy of this steel, and the cost savings which are achievable. Finally, the status of the current and planned Navy HSLA usage and the R&D program is described.