Okaloosa County recently shared new images of the SS United States as the ship prepares to be sunk off the coast of Florida.

Set to become the world’s largest artificial reef, the former ocean liner is currently awaiting approval for its deployment.

Currently docked in Mobile, Alabama, the 1952-built vessel underwent a remediation process that aimed to make it environmentally safe for the project.

Carried out by contractor Coleen Marine, the procedure included the removal of hazardous materials, including oils and fuels.

The process also involved the stripping of wiring and non-metal components, in addition to other changes, such as hull modifications.

Holes were strategically cut around the ship to ensure it lands upright as it is submerged. Passages were also opened, allowing marine life to thrive in and around the former ocean liner.

The funnels and main mast of the vessel were removed earlier this year and will be used for a land-based museum managed by the SS United States Conservancy.

According to Okaloosa County, the vessel is now ready for deployment at its new location, 22 miles south of Destin-Fort Walton Beach.

Officials are said to be only awaiting approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before submitting a final report to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The SS United States will then sail from Mobile for its final voyage, which will end with an assisted sinking operation.

As one of the fastest passenger ships of all time, the vessel was built to operate regular crossings for the United States Line. After spending 17 years in service, the 53,000-ton ship spent the last five decades in layup in different ports.

According to Okaloosa County, the reefing project aims to preserve the vessel’s history, saving it from scrapping.