|
|
Ohio class submarines
The Ohio class submarines
were specifically designed for extended deterrence
patrols. Each submarine is complemented by
two crews, Blue and Gold, with each crew operating
on a 100-day interval. To decrease the time
in port for crew turnover and replenishment,
three large logistics hatches are fitted to
provide large diameter resupply and repair
openings. These hatches allow sailors to rapidly
transfer supply pallets, equipment replacement
modules and machinery components, significantly
reducing the time required for replenishment
and maintenance. The class design allows the
vessel to operate for 15+ years between overhauls.
The first eight Ohio
class submarines were originally equipped
with 24 Trident I C-4 ballistic missiles.
Beginning with the ninth Trident submarine,
USS Tennessee, the remaining ships were equipped
with the upgraded Trident II D-5 variant as
they were constructed. The Trident II missile
carries nine multiple inertial re-entry vehicles
(MIRVs), in sum delivering more deterrence
than the Trident I and with much greater accuracy.
Starting with Alaska in 2000, conversion of
the remaining C-4 equipped submarines to D-5
is currently underway.
|
|
|
