Ohio-class SSBN/SSGN Audio Brief (Patreon)
Downloads
Content
Audio only version for your mobile devices, easy to download.
The Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) is a class of nuclear-powered submarines operated by the United States Navy. Designed for stealth and endurance, these submarines are primarily tasked with nuclear deterrence. Here are some key technical specifications and features:
Length: 560 feet (170.7 meters)
Beam: 42 feet (12.8 meters)
Displacement: Approximately 18,750 tons submerged
Propulsion: One S8G pressurized water reactor, driving two steam turbines and one shaft
Speed: Over 20 knots (23 mph; 37 km/h) submerged
Depth: Classified, but operational depth exceeds 800 feet
Crew: 155 personnel (15 officers and 140 enlisted)
Armament:
24 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs)
Four 533 mm torpedo tubes for Mark 48 torpedoes
Ohio-Class Guided Missile Submarine (SSGN)
The Ohio-class guided missile submarine (SSGN) is a variant of the Ohio-class SSBN that has been converted to carry conventional weapons and support special operations. These submarines provide the Navy with a versatile and powerful platform capable of a wide range of missions. Key features include:
Length: 560 feet (170.7 meters)
Beam: 42 feet (12.8 meters)
Displacement: Approximately 18,750 tons submerged
Propulsion: One S8G pressurized water reactor, driving two steam turbines and one shaft
Speed: Over 20 knots (23 mph; 37 km/h) submerged
Depth: Classified, but operational depth exceeds 800 feet
Crew: Approximately 165 personnel (15 officers and 140 enlisted, plus additional Special Operations Forces)
Armament:
Up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, launched from 22 converted Trident missile tubes
Four 533 mm torpedo tubes for Mark 48 torpedoes
Special Operations Capabilities:
Dry Deck Shelter (DDS) for deploying SEAL Delivery Vehicles (SDVs)
Advanced communications and command capabilities
Extensive support facilities for special operations forces
The conversion of Ohio-class SSBNs to SSGNs allows these submarines to carry a large payload of conventional missiles and support special operations missions, significantly enhancing the U.S. Navy's strike and operational capabilities.