Admiral Kinnaird Rowe McKee (August 14, 1929 – December 30, 2013) was NR's 2nd Director taking over the helm from Admiral Rickover in 1982. Over a remarkable career spanning 41 years, McKee made significant contributions to the Navy's submarine force and the broader development of nuclear propulsion technology.

Early Naval Career and Submarine Service (1951–1970): McKee graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1951 and began his service during the Korean War aboard the destroyer USS Marshall (DD 676). Following the war, he completed submarine training in 1953 and served on several diesel-powered submarines. His first command came in 1956 with the experimental submarine USS X-1. After completing nuclear power training in 1958, McKee joined the commissioning crew of USS Skipjack (SSN 585), the Navy's first high-performance nuclear-powered attack submarine. His subsequent roles as Executive Officer on USS Nautilus (SSN 571) and USS Sam Houston (SSBN 609) further solidified his expertise in nuclear submarine operations.

Advancing in Nuclear Submarine Operations (1970–1975): McKee’s career continued to advance as he took on roles that expanded his influence. He served in the Naval Reactors Division of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission from 1964 to 1966, gaining further expertise under the mentorship of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover. Commanding USS Dace (SSN 607) from 1966 through 1969, McKee led the submarine to numerous commendations for operational excellence. This included a significant exercise that took place in June 1968 involving the USS Dace (SSN-607) and the USS Shark (SSN-591). This exercise was crucial for evaluating the speed capabilities necessary for modern submarines. The slower USS Dace, under the command of McKee, the Dace's superior tactics and highly skilled crew were necessary for it to maintain a slight edge over the faster Shark. This performance demonstrated the value of high speed and agility in submarine warfare. Following this exercise, it was recommended that advanced procurement for a high-speed attack submarine be requested for fiscal year 1969, leading to the development of the Los Angeles (SSN-688) class of submarines​​.

His strategic roles included establishing the CNO Executive Panel and serving as NATO and U.S. Submarine Commander in the Mediterranean.

Leadership Roles and Impact on Naval Warfare (1975–1982): As the 48th Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy from 1975 to 1978, McKee oversaw significant developments in naval education. Promoted to Vice Admiral in 1978, he commanded the Third Fleet and later served as Director of Naval Warfare, where he expanded the directorate to cover all aspects of naval warfare, demonstrating his broad influence on Navy policy and operations.

Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion (1982–1988): On February 1, 1982, Admiral McKee succeeded Admiral Rickover as the Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion, a role in which he oversaw the Navy’s nuclear fleet during a critical period of technological advancement and geopolitical tension. McKee’s leadership ensured the continued excellence and safety of the Navy's nuclear fleet, while also driving modernization efforts.

Maintaining and Enhancing the Safety Record: One of McKee's foremost accomplishments during his tenure was his commitment to upholding the rigorous safety and operational standards established by Rickover. Recognizing the importance of these standards, McKee ensured that the principles of conservative design, thorough training, and strict procedural compliance remained central to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. Under his leadership, the program maintained its unblemished safety record, which was crucial to its success and reputation.

Modernization and Technological Innovation: During McKee's tenure, the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program continued to modernize the fleet with advancements in reactor design and efficiency. He oversaw the development of reactors with extended operational life, reducing the frequency of refueling and enhancing the strategic capabilities of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered vessels. McKee’s leadership was instrumental in the development of the Seawolf-class submarines, which began under his watch and were designed to surpass the capabilities of their predecessors. The Seawolf-class introduced new technologies in stealth, speed, and deep-sea warfare, representing a significant leap forward in submarine design.

Expansion and Strategic Deterrence: Under McKee’s direction, the Navy expanded its nuclear fleet, ensuring it met the demands of the Cold War era. This included the construction of new submarines and surface ships equipped with the latest nuclear propulsion technology. McKee’s contributions were critical in maintaining the Navy's edge during a time when the strategic importance of submarines in nuclear deterrence was paramount.

Legacy and Lasting Impact: McKee's impact on the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program extends beyond his tenure. The Seawolf-class submarines, though few in number, are considered among the most capable and advanced submarines ever built, a direct result of the technological innovations championed by McKee. Additionally, his emphasis on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement ensured that the U.S. Navy’s nuclear fleet remained a model of excellence.

McKee’s leadership also reinforced the Navy’s commitment to nuclear propulsion as a cornerstone of its operational strategy, influencing naval operations and nuclear engineering practices long after his retirement. His ability to lead the program through a period of transition, following the long and influential tenure of Admiral Rickover, speaks to his exceptional leadership and dedication.

Awards and Honors: Throughout his career, McKee received numerous awards, including the Distinguished Service Medal and five awards of the Legion of Merit, reflecting his profound impact on the Navy and his role in advancing naval technology and safety.

Admiral McKee retired on October 31, 1988, after 41 years of service, and passed away on December 30, 2013. He was buried at the U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the United States Navy.