Navy SSBN(X) Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress

Abstract

Ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) carry submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) which are large, long-range missiles armed with multiple nuclear warheads. The SSBNs? basic mission is to remain hidden at sea with their SLBMs, so as to deter a nuclear attack on the United States by another country. Navy SSBNs form one leg of the U.S. strategic nuclear deterrent force, or "triad," which also includes land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and landbased long-range bombers. The Navy currently operates 14 Ohio (SSBN-726) class SSBNs, the first of which is projected to reach the end of its service life in 2027.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 28, 2010
Accession Number
ADA534643

Entities

People

  • Ronald O'Rourke

Organizations

  • Library of Congress

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Attack Submarines
  • Ballistic Missile Submarines
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Boats
  • Fleet Ballistic Missiles
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Marine Transportation
  • National Security
  • Naval Operations
  • Naval Vessels
  • Naval Warfare
  • Navy
  • Nuclear Powered Submarines
  • Submarine Warfare
  • Submarines
  • United States
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Maritime and Naval Warfare Studies
  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Public Financial Management and Budgeting