Ohio-class Sub Brief (Patreon)

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.