Our Next Commander in Chief

The U.S. Navy submarine fleet is a critical component of the nation's naval power and is primarily composed of two types of submarines: Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs) and Attack Submarines (SSNs). Here’s an overview of their disposition:

1. Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs)

   - Role: SSBNs, also known as "boomers," are strategic assets that carry nuclear ballistic missiles. They form the sea-based leg of the U.S. nuclear triad, which also includes land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and strategic bombers.

   - Fleet: The U.S. operates 14 Ohio-class SSBNs, which are stationed at two key locations:

     - Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia: Home to six SSBNs, covering the Atlantic.

     - Naval Base Kitsap, Washington: Home to eight SSBNs, covering the Pacific.

   Future Plans: The Ohio-class SSBNs are being replaced by the newer Columbia-class submarines, the first of which is expected to enter service in the early 2030s.

2. Attack Submarines (SSNs)

   Role: SSNs are multi-mission platforms designed for various tasks, including hunting enemy submarines, launching cruise missiles, conducting intelligence gathering, and conducting special operations. They do not carry ballistic missiles.

   - Fleet: The U.S. operates 50+ SSNs across three classes:

     - Los Angeles-class: These are older submarines, gradually being retired. About 28 are still in service.

     Seawolf-class: Due to high costs, only three of these advanced attack submarines were built, but they remain highly capable.

     - Virginia-class: The newest and most advanced SSNs, designed to be versatile and more affordable than the Seawolf class. Over 20 Virginia-class submarines are in service, with more on order.

   - Bases: 

     - Naval Submarine Base New London, Connecticut: Key base for the Atlantic fleet.

     - Naval Base Pearl Harbor, Hawaii: Hosts several SSNs covering the Pacific.

     - Naval Base San Diego, California: A major hub for attack submarines.

3. Guided Missile Submarines (SSGNs)

   Role: The U.S. Navy converted four of its Ohio-class SSBNs into guided missile submarines (SSGNs). These submarines can carry Tomahawk cruise missiles and deploy special operations forces.

   - Fleet: The U.S. operates four SSGNs, two based in the Atlantic and two in the Pacific.

Current and Future Developments:

   - The U.S. Navy is modernising its submarine fleet by developing the Columbia-class SSBNs to replace the ageing Ohio-class SSBNs.

   The Virginia-class Block V submarines are being equipped with Virginia Payload Modules (VPM), which expand their capability to carry more cruise missiles.

   - As of the 2020s, the U.S. Navy plans to maintain a fleet of about 66 attack submarines and continue the strategic modernisation of its SSBN fleet for nuclear deterrence.

The U.S. submarine fleet consists of 14 SSBNs, 50+ SSNs, and 4 SSGNs, all strategically located to maintain a global presence and respond to potential threats.