Ohio Class
USA1981 - Present
The Ohio class is the largest submarine ever built by the United States. As SSBNs, they carry nuclear-armed Trident missiles for strategic deterrence. Four have been converted to SSGNs carrying 154 Tomahawk missiles each.
Primary Specifications
Displacement
18750 ton
One of the largest submarines ever built
Length
170 m
Massive hull for SLBM capacity
Max Depth
300 m
Sufficient depth for patrol operations
Armament (Primary)
24 Trident II D5 SLBMs
Strategic nuclear deterrent capability
Crew
155
Large crew for extended deterrent patrols
Quick Summary
What it is?
A nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) and guided missile submarine (SSGN)
Who uses it?
U.S. Navy Strategic Forces Command
Role
Strategic nuclear deterrence (SSBN) and conventional strike/special operations (SSGN)
What's different?
Largest submarines in US Navy at 560 feet - SSBNs carry 20 Trident II D5 missiles, SSGNs carry 154 Tomahawks plus 66 special operators
Why it matters?
Forms the sea-based leg of America's nuclear triad, providing assured second-strike capability that deters nuclear attack.
Real-World Impact
1
Nuclear Deterrence
Each SSBN can destroy an entire nation with its Trident missiles, ensuring no first strike goes unanswered
2
Massive Conventional Strike
SSGN variants can launch 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles in a single salvo
3
Special Operations
SSGNs can deploy 66 Navy SEALs with underwater vehicles
4
Continuous Patrol
At least one Ohio SSBN is always at sea, undetectable and ready
Additional Features
Propulsion Type
Nuclear (S8G)
Stealth Features
7-blade skewed prop
Special Capabilities
154 Tomahawks (SSGN)
FAQs
1. What is a 'Trident missile'?
The Trident II D5 is a submarine-launched ballistic missile with a range of over 7,000 miles. Each can carry multiple nuclear warheads to strike different targets.2. What's the difference between SSBN and SSGN?
3. How many are there?
4. How long can it stay submerged?
5. What replaces them?
*Powered by AI
