|
Fleet Ballistic
Missile Submarines - SSBN
Description:
Nuclear-powered submarines armed with long-range strategic
missiles.
Features:
The first eight Ohio class submarines (Tridents) were
originally equipped with 24 Trident I C-4 ballistic missiles. Beginning with
the ninth Trident submarine, USS Tennessee (SSBN 734), all new ships are
equipped with the Trident II D-5 missile system as they are built, and the
earlier ships are being retrofitted to Trident II. Trident II can deliver
significantly more payload than Trident I C-4 and more accurately.
The Ohio-class submarines are specifically designed for extended deterrent
patrols. To decrease the time in port for crew turnover and replenishment,
three large logistics hatches are fitted to provide large diameter resupply
and repair openings. These hatches allow sailors to rapidly transfer supply
pallets, equipment replacement modules and machinery components,
significantly reducing the time required for replenishment and maintenance.
The class design and modern main concepts allow the submarines to operate for
15+ years between overhauls.
The first four Ohio-class submarines are scheduled for conversion over the
next five years to guided missile submarines (SSGN) with an additional
capability to transport and support Navy special operations forces.
Background:
Strategic deterrence has been the sole mission of the fleet
ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) since its inception in 1960. The SSBN
provides the nation's most survivable and enduring nuclear strike capability.
The Ohio class submarine replaced aging fleet ballistic missile submarines
built in the 1960s and is far more capable.
Ohio-class/Trident ballistic missile submarines provide the sea-based "leg"
of the triad of U.S. strategic deterrent forces. The 18 Trident SSBNs (each
carrying 24 missiles), carry 50 percent of the total U.S. strategic warheads.
Although the missiles have no pre-set targets when the submarine goes on
patrol, the SSBNs are capable of rapidly targeting their missiles should the
need arise, using secure and constant at-sea communications links.
General
Characteristics, TRIDENT (SSBN 726) Class
Builder:
General Dynamics Electric Boat Division.
Date Deployed:
November 11, 1981 (USS Ohio)
Propulsion:
One nuclear reactor, one shaft.
Length:
560 feet (170.69 meters).
Beam:
42 feet (12.8 meters).
Displacement:
16,764 tons (17,033 metric tons) surfaced; 18,750
tons (19,000 metric tons) submerged.
Speed:
20+ knots (23+ miles per hour, 36.8+ kph).
Crew:
15 Officers, 140 Enlisted.
Armament:
24 tubes for Trident I and II, MK-48 torpedoes, four
torpedo tubes.
COMPILED FROM : UNITED STATES NAVY
FACT FILE |
