David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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Deep Drone 7200 Remotely
Function: Deep sea underwater recovery.
Description: The Deep Drone is a 7,200-foot depth rated Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). The system is designed to meet the Navy's needs for deep ocean recovery. The system is air transportable on military cargo aircraft and is designed to operate from various ships.
Features: The operator can control the ROV in all six degrees of freedom. Auto-control functions are provided for depth, altitude, and heading. The vehicle is capable of functioning with both long and short baseline bottom navigation systems. The vehicle uses electric propulsion, giving it a low noise signature. It carries a target locating sonar and has two manipulators capable of working with tools and attaching rigging. For photographic documentation, the vehicle has a 35mm still camera and both black and white and color television cameras that produce quality videotape. Electrical power for the system is provided by a diesel generator or the power system of the supporting ship if it is compatible. For special operations, the ROV can accommodate custom, skid-mounted tool packages. These packages could include, but are not limited to, trenchers, specialized salvage tools, and instrument packages or other mission-oriented equipment.
General Characteristics, Deep Drone 7200
Propulsion:
Electrical
Length, Overall:
9 feet 3 inches (2.8194 meters)
Width:
4 feet 7 inches (1.397 meters)
Displacement:
67.5 tons
Height:
6 feet 2 inches (1.8796 meters)
Lift Capacity:
3,200 pounds (1,451.52 kilograms)
Payload:
300 pounds (136.08 kilograms)
Maximum Operating Depth:
7,200 feet (2,194.56 meters)
Lift Capacity:
3,200 pounds (1,451.52 kilograms)
Speed:
3 knots (5.559 kmh)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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Sea Shadow
Description: Sea Shadow is a test craft developed under a combined program by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), the Navy, and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space Company.
History: The Sea Shadow program was begun in the mid-1980s. Its purpose is to explore a variety of new technologies for surface ships, including ship control, structures, automation for reduced manning, seakeeping and signature control.
General Characteristics, Sea Shadow
Power Plant:
Diesel electric
Length, Overall:
164 feet (49.99 meters)
Beam:
68 feet (20.73 meters)
Draft:
14.5 feet (4.42 meters)
Displacement:
560 long tons (568.99 metric tons) full load
Crew:
10
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AG - USNS Hayes Acousti
Function: The USNS Hayes is one of 28 special missions ships operated by Military Sealift Command providing operating platforms and services for unique U.S. military requirements. Special missions ships work for several different U.S. Navy customers, such as the Naval Sea Systems Command, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command and the Oceanographer of the Navy.
History: The USNS Hayes was laid down Nov. 12, 1969; launched July 2, 1970, to the Ready Reserve on June 10, 1983 and transferred to James River (Maritime Administration) for lay-up in 1984 having been too costly to operate. Under FY86 program, the Hayes was converted to an Acoustic Research Ship; reclassified T-AG 195 and completed in early 1992 after five years' work in two shipyards.
Description: The USNS Hayes' mission is to transport, deploy and retrieve acoustic arrays, to conduct acoustic surveys in support of the submarine noise reduction program and to carry out acoustic testing. The catamaran design provides a stable platform with a large deck availability. The design also permits installation of a center-line well, with access to sheltered water between the hulls. The ship is equipped with two auxiliary propulsion diesel engines for use during acoustic operations, providing a creeping speed of 2-4 knots.
General Characteristics, USNS Hayes
Builders:
Todd Shipyards, Seattle, WA
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; twoCaterpiller diesels, 3,620 horsepower sustained, two generators, two Westinghouse motors, 2,400 hp; two auxiliary diesels (for creep speed); 330 horsepower; two shafts, cp props
Length, Overall:
247 feet (72.29 meters)
Beam:
75 feet (22.86 meters)
Displacement:
3,952 long tons (4,015.42 metric tons) full load
Speed:
10 knots (11.5 mph, 18.52 kph)
Crew:
19 civilians, seven officers and 30 scientists
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AGM Missile Range Instr
Function: Missile range instrumentation ship provides a platform for monitoring foreign missile launchers for SALT Treaty verification.
History: The USNS Observation Island was built as a "Mariner" class merchant ship; launched Aug. 15, 1953; and acquired by the Navy on Sept. 10, 1956, for use as a Fleet Ballistic Missile test ship. The vessel was converted at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, and was placed in reserve from September 1972. On Aug. 18, 1977, the Observation Island was reacquired by the U.S. Navy from the Maritime Administration and transferred to Military Sealift Command and reclassified as T-AGM 23.
Description: The USNS Observation Island operates worldwide, monitoring compliance with strategic arms treaties and supports U.S. military weapons test programs. Observation Island carries an Air Force shipborne phased-array radar System for collection of data on missile tests. The ship is operated by Military Sealift Command for the U.S. Air Force Technical Applications Center at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida.
General Characteristics, USNS Observation Island
Builders:
New York Shipbuilding
Conversion:
Maryland Shipbuilding and Drydock Corporation
Power Plant:
Two boilers; one GE turbine; 19,250 hp (14.36 MW); one shaft
Length, Overall:
564 feet (171.91 meters)
Beam:
76 feet (23.16 meters)
Displacement:
13,060 long tons (13,269.59 metric tons) light; 17,015 tons (17,288.06 metric tons) full load
Speed:
20 knots (23 mph, 37.05 kph)
Crew:
65 civilians (20 officers, 35 technicians)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AGOS Stalwart Class Cou
Function: The USNS Stalwart (TAGOS 1), USNS Indomitable (TAGOS 7) and USNS Capable (TAGOS 16) are monohull ocean surveillance ships originally designed to gather underwater acoustical data.
History: Stalwart, along with two sister ships, was deactivated in the early 1990s when the end of the Cold War signaled a reduced submarine threat from the former Soviet Union, however, the Atlantic commander decided to convert the three ships for a new mission ? finding narcotics traffickers. They now support the Joint Interagency Task Force, East. The three Stalwart class ships have been modified for a drug interdiction mission. The underwater acoustic array was removed, and an air search radar, integrated display system, sophisticated communications suite and other special mission equipment were installed to detect and monitor suspected drug traffickers.
General Characteristics, Stalwart Class
Builders:
Tacoma Boatbuilding, Tacoma, WA
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; four Caterpillar D 3988 diesel generators, 3,200 horsepower, two motors, 1,600 horsepower; two shafts; bow thruster; 550 horsepower
Length, Overall:
224 feet (68.28 meters)
Beam:
43 feet (13.11 meters)
Displacement:
2,262 long tons (2,298.3 metric tons) full load
Speed:
11 knots (12.66 mph, 20.37 kph)
Crew:
20 Navy personnel and 18 civilians
Ships:
USNS Stalwart (T-AGOS 1)
USNS Indomitable (T-AGOS 7)
USNS Capable (T-AGOS 16I)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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Ocean Surveillance Ship
Function: Ocean surveillance ships have a single mission to gather underwater acoustical data. The T-AGOS ships operate to support the anti-submarine warfare mission of the Commanders in chief of the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets.
History: A contract for the first SWATH ship, T-AGOS 19, was awarded in November 1986, and options for the next three were exercised in October 1988. These ships have the same WSC-6 communications, links and operating procedures as the Stalwart class. The keel for the first Impeccable class was laid down Feb. 2, 1993. The ship was more than 60 percent completed when the shipyard encountered difficulties. The contract was sublet to Halter Marine on April 20, 1995 to complete the ship. Planned christening date is early 1999.
Description: The ship is designed to tow an array of underwater listening devices to collect acoustical data. The ship also carries electronic equipment to process and transmit that data via satellite to shore stations for evaluation. The ship, the listening devices and electronic equipment are all part of a system called the Surveillance Towed Array System, or SURTASS. The Victorious class ocean surveillance ships are built on a Small Waterplane Twin Hull, or SWATH, design for greater stability at slow speeds in high latitudes under adverse weather conditions. The Impeccable class ships have a hull form based on that of the Victorious. Acoustic systems should include an active low frequency towed array, which has a series of modules each of which houses two high-powered active transducers. These can be used with either mono or bistatic receivers.
Background: Stalwart, along with two sister ships, was deactivated in the early 1990s when the end of the Cold War signaled a reduced submarine threat from the former Soviet Union, however, the Atlantic commander decided to convert the three ships for a new mission ? finding narcotics traffickers. They now support the Joint Interagency Task Force, East. The three Stalwart class ships have been modified for a drug interdiction mission. The underwater acoustic array was removed, and an air search radar, integrated display system, sophisticated communications suite and other special mission equipment were installed to detect and monitor suspected drug traffickers.
General Characteristics, Stalwart Class
Builders:
Tacoma Boatbuilding, Tacoma, WA
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; four Caterpillar D 3988 diesel generators, 3,200 horsepower, two motors, 1,600 horsepower; two shafts; bow thruster; 550 horsepower
Length, Overall:
224 feet (68.28 meters)
Beam:
43 feet (13.11 meters)
Displacement:
2,262 long tons (2,298.3 metric tons) full load
Speed:
11 knots (12.66 mph, 20.37 kph), 3 knots when towing array
Crew:
18 mariners, five technicians and up to 15 Navy personnel
Ships:
USNS Prevail (T-AGOS 8)
USNS Assertive (T-AGOS 9)
USNS Bold (T-AGOS 12)
General Characteristics, Victorious Class
Builders:
McDermott Marine, Morgan City, LA
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; four Caterpillar 3,512 diesel generators, two GE motors, twin screw 1,600 shaft hp; two bow thrusters; 2,400 horsepower
Length, Overall:
234.5 feet (71.48 meters)
Beam:
93.6 feet (28.53 meters)
Displacement:
3,396 long tons (3,450.5 metric tons) full load
Speed:
10 knots (11.51 mph, 18.52 kph), 3 knots when towing array
Crew:
19-22 mariners, 5 technicians and up to 15 Navy personnel
Ships:
USNS Victorious (T-AGOS 19)
USNS Able (T-AGOS 20)
USNS Effective (T-AGOS 21)
USNS Loyal (T-AGOS 22)
General Characteristics, Impeccable Class
Builders:
Tampa Shipyard/Halter Marine
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; three diesel generators; two Westinghouse motors; 5,000 horsepower; twin screw shaft; two omni-thruster hydrojets; 1,800 horsepower
Length, Overall:
281.5 feet (85.80 meters)
Beam:
95.8 feet (29.2 meters)
Displacement:
5,370 long tons (5,456.18 metric tons) full load
Speed:
13 knots (14.96 mph, 24.08 kph), 3 knots when towing
Crew:
20 mariners, 5 technicians and up to 20 Navy personnel
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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Shallow Water Intermediat
Function: Shallow water search sonar.
History: The USNS Hayes was laid down Nov. 12, 1969; launched July 2, 1970, to the Ready Reserve on June 10, 1983 and transferred to James River (Maritime Administration) for lay-up in 1984 having been too costly to operate. Under FY86 program, Hayes was converted to an Acoustic Research Ship; reclassified T-AG 195 and completed in early 1992 after five years' work in two shipyards.
Description: The Shallow Water Intermediate Search System (SWISS) is a dual-frequency towed side-scan sonar system mounted inside a torpedo shaped tow body. The sonar is towed behind a vessel at slow speeds, generally from one to five knots. Sonar signals are processed producing both an analog and digital display of features on the ocean bottom. Trained operators interpret these displays to identify potential targets. The low frequency is generally used for primary searching and the higher frequency can give an extremely fine grain trace of bottom features and contacts. This allows for detailed analysis of the contacts.
General Characteristics, Shallow Water Intermediate Search System
Propulsion:
Electrical
Length:
3 feet (0.9144 meters)
Diameter:
6 inches (15.24 centimeters)
Maximum Operating Depth:
5,000 feet (1,524 meters)
Weight:
Less than 50 pounds (>22.68 kilograms)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AG Navigation Research/
Function: The USNS Vanguard (TAG 194) is a navigational test launch ship which perform assorted tests related to research on various missile navigational systems.
History: The USNS Vanguard supports sponsor programs in navigation research by providing a platform for testing fleet ballistic missile guidance and missile systems. Reclassified as AG 194 in September 1980, this ship is under the operational control of Director, Strategic Systems Program. In May 1997, equipment was installed to enable the ship to serve as a range instrumentation ship in support of the fleet ballistic missile program.
Description: The USNS Vanguard (TAG 194) is one of 30 special missions ships operated by Military Sealift Command providing operating platforms and services for unique U.S. military and federal government missions. Special missions ships work for several different U.S. Navy customers, such as the Naval Sea Systems Command, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command and the Oceanographer of the Navy.
General Characteristics, USNS Vanguard
Builders:
Marine Ship Corporation, Sausalito, CA
Power Plant:
Turbo-electric; two boilers; eight Westinghouse turbo-generators; 10,000 horsepower; one motor, one shaft
Length, Overall:
595 feet (181.36 meters)
Beam:
75 feet (22.86 meters)
Displacement:
13,882 long tons (14,104.78 metric tons) light
24,761 tons (25,158.37 metric tons) full load
Speed:
14 knots (16.11 mph, 25.93 kph)
Crew:
45 civilians, 18 scientists plus 141 spare
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AGS Survey Ships
Function: Military Sealift Command's Special Missions program supports worldwide oceanographic programs with ships which perform acoustical, biological, physical and geophysical surveys. Ships such as USNS Silas Bent (TAGS 26), USNS Kane (TAGS 27) and USNS Bowditch (TAGS 62) gather data which provides much of the military's information on the ocean environment. Oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships are used to study the world's oceans. The collected data helps to improve technology in undersea warfare and enemy ship detection. The oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships' multibeam, wide-angle precision sonar systems make it possible to continuously chart a broad strip of ocean floor. Two oceanographic ships survey the sea bottom and collect hydrographic data, charting three-fourths of the world's coastlines. USNS John McDonnell (TAGS 51) and USNS Littlehales (TAGS 52) make it easier for navigators to find their way along well-traveled and not-so-familiar shipping routes.
History: The USNS John McDonnell (TAGS 51) was laid down Aug. 3, 1989, and the USNS Littlehales (TAGS 52) on Oct. 25, 1989. The McDonnell launched Aug. 15, 1980, the Littlehales on Feb. 14, 1991. The contract for the Pathfinder class of surveying ships was awarded in January 1991 for two ships with an option for a third which was taken up May 29, 1992. A fourth ship was ordered in Oct. 1994 with an option for two more. A fifth ship was ordered Jan. 15, 1997.
Description: The Silas Bent class of surveying ships were designed specifically for surveying operations. They have a bow propulsion unit for precise maneuverability and station keeping. The John McDonnell class of survey ships carries 34-foot survey launches for data collection in coastal regions with depths between 10 and 600 m and in deep water to 4,000 m. A small diesel is used for propulsion at towing speeds of up to 6 knots. SIMRAD high-frequency active hull-mounted and side scan sonars are carried. The Pathfinder class of survey ships have three multipurpose cranes and five winches plus a variety of oceanographic equipment including multibeam echo-sounders, towed sonars and expendable sensors.
General Characteristics, Silas Bent Class
Builders:
American SB Co., Lorain/Christy Corp, Sturgeon Bay, WI
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; two Alco diesel generators; one Westinghouse/GE motor; 3,600 horsepower (2.69 MW); one shaft; cp prop; bow thruster; 350 horsepower (261 kW)
Length, Overall:
285.3 feet (86.96 meters)
Beam:
48 feet (14.63 meters)
Displacement:
2,550 to 2,843 long tons (2,590.92 to 2,888.62 metric tons) full load
Speed:
15 knots when towing
Crew:
31 civilians (12 officers) plus 28 scientists
Ships:
USNS Silas Bent (T-AGS 26)
USNS Kane (T-AGS 27)
General Characteristics, John McDonnell Class
Builders:
Halter Marine Moss Point, MS
Power Plant:
One GM EMD 12-645E6 diesel; 2,500 horsepower (1.9 MW) sustained; one auxiliary diesel; 230 horsepower (172kW); one shaft
Length, Overall:
208 feet (63.40 meters)
Beam:
45 feet (13.72 meters)
Displacement:
2,054 long tons (2,086.96 metric tons) full load
Speed:
12 knots (13.8 mph, 22.22 kph)
Crew:
22 civilians plus 11 scientists
Ships:
USNS John McDonnell (T-AGS 51)
USNS Littlehales (T-AGS 52)
General Characteristics, Pathfinder Class
Builders:
Halter Marine Moss Point, MS
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; four EMD/Baylor diesel generators; 11, 425 horsepower (8.52 MW); two GE CDF 1944 motors; 8,000 horsepower (5.96 MW) sustained; 6,000 horsepower (4.48 MW); two Lips Z drives; bow thruster, 1,500 horsepower (1.19 MW)
Length, Overall:
328.5 feet (100.13 meters)
Beam:
58 feet (17.68 meters)
Displacement:
4,762 long tons (4,838.42 metric tons) full load
Speed:
16 knots (18.4 mph, 29.63 kph)
Crew:
28 civilians plus 27 scientists
Ships:
USNS Pathfinder (T-AGS 60)
USNS Sumner (T-AGS 61)
USNS Bowditch (T-AGS 62)
USNS Henson (T-AGS 63)
USNS Bruce C. Heezen (T-AGS 64)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-ARC USNS Zeus Cable Rep
Function: The USNS Zeus (T-ARC 7), operated by Military Sealift Command, is a cable repair ship which transports, deploys, retrieves and repairs submarine cables. The USNS Zeus performs maintenance on the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) which is a network of strategically placed sonar sensors that provide early warning of submarines.
History: The USNS Hayes was laid down Nov. 12, 1969; launched July 2, 1970, to the Ready Reserve on June 10, 1983 and transferred to James River (Maritime Administration) for lay-up in 1984 having been too costly to operate. Under FY86 program, the Hayes was converted to an Acoustic Research Ship; reclassified T-AG 195 and completed in early 1992 after five years' work in two shipyards.
Description: The USNS Zeus (T-ARC 7) was built specifically for the Navy; the ship can lay up to 1,000 miles of cable in depth of 9,000 feet during a single deployment before having to restock its cable supply. The USNS Zeus is the only active Cable Repair Ship in the U.S. Navy.
General Characteristics, USNS Zeus
Builders:
National Steel and Shipbuilding Co., San Diego, CA
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric, twin shaft, 10,200 shaft horsepower
Length, Overall:
513 feet (156.40 meters)
Beam:
73 feet (22.25 meters)
Displacement:
14,157 long tons (14,384.19 metric tons) full load
Speed:
15 knots (17.26 mph, 27.78 kph)
Crew:
51 civilians, 6 military and 32 scientists
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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AGSS 555 USS Dolphin Reas
Function: The USS Dolphin (AGSS 555) is the Navy's only operational, diesel-electric, deep-diving, research and development submarine.
History: Shortly after her commisioning in 1968, the USS Dolphin established an unmatched world depth record for operational submarines. The submarine has since amassed an impressive record of scientific and military accomplishments, and now serves as a unit of the U.S. Naval Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, under Commander, Submarine Development Squadron Five. Dolphin is home ported in San Diego and berthed at NCCOSC RDTE Division (NRaD) Pier 160. Employed by both civilian and Navy activities, the research submarine is equipped with an extensive instrumentation suite that supports missions such as acoustic deep-water and littoral research, near-bottom and ocean surveys, weapons launches, sensor trials, and engineering evaluations.
Description: Because she was designed as a test platform, USS Dolphin can be modified both internally and externally to allow installation of up to 12 tons of special research and test equipment. The submarine has internal and external mounting points, multiple electronic hull connectors, and up to 10 equipment racks for project use.
General Characteristics, USS Dolphin
Builders:
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Power Plant:
Diesel/Electric; 2 GM 12-cylinder, 425 HP engines
Date Deployed:
August 17, 1968
Length, Overall:
165 feet (50.29 meters)
Beam:
8 feet (2.44 meters)
Displacement:
950 long tons (965.25 metric tons) full load
Diameter:
18 feet (5.49 meters)
Maximum Operating Depth:
3,000 feet (914.40 meters)
Crew:
5 officer, 46 enlisted, and up to 5 scientists
Armament:
None
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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SSBN726 - Ohio Class Flee
Function: America's current Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine.
Description: Since the first Poseidon submarines took to the seas in 1960, the sole purpose of the Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine has been strategic deterrence. Given their wide operational area (70% of the world's surface is covered by water) the SSBN represents the most survivable and unreachable "leg" of America's land, sea, and air nuclear deterrence tripod. Built to accommodate the Improved Trident I ballistic missile and relying on advances pioneered by the Narwhal's natural circulation reactor as well as the advanced sensor capabilities of the Los Angeles class fast attack submarines, the Ohio class SSBNs are the most advanced ballistic missile submarines in the world. Virtually undetectable at operating speed and depth, the Ohio class SSBN can maneuver with impunity through the world's oceans and given the submarine's sensory capabilities an Ohio class boat will detect and maneuver around any threat long before the threat can acquire the SSBN. Of the eighteen Ohio class SSBNs currently in service, the first eight were designed to fire 24 Trident I Submarine Launched Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (SLICBM) each of which carries 10 Multiple Independent Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) warheads. The remaining ten were designed to carry the more powerful Trident II SLICBM each of which carries 12 MIRVs. Current Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT) conditions limit the number of MIRVs to eight per missile. In 1992 the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START II) was signed, limiting member nations to 14 SSBNs each. As a result, only four of the original eight will be backfitted with the Trident II missile, while the rest will either be converted to SSGN cruise missile boats, Special Operations support ships (similar to the SSN640 class) or decommissioned.
General Characteristics, Ohio Class
Builders:
General Dynamics Electric Boat Division
Power Plant:
One S8G nuclear reactor, two geared steam turbines, one shaft, 60,000 shaft horsepower
Date Deployed:
November 11, 1981 (USS Ohio)
Length, Overall:
560 feet (170.69 meters)
Beam:
42 feet (12.80 meters)
Displacement:
18,750 long tons (19,000.1 metric tons) submerged
Speed:
20+ knots (23.02+ miles per hour, 37.05 +kph)
Crew:
15 Officers; 140 Enlisted
Armament:
Mk 48 ADCAP Torpedoes, launched from four 533mm torpedo tubes
Radar:
1 AN/BPS-15 navigation and fire control radar
Sonar:
One TB-16 passive towed sonar array
One AN/BQR-19 navigation sonar
One AN/BQQ-6 low frequency spherical bow sonar array
One AN/BQS-13 active sonar
Optics:
One Type 2 attack periscope
One Type 18 search periscope
Countermeasures:
WLR-10 acoustic intercept receiver
WLR-8 surveillance reciever
WLY-1 acoustic countermeasures system
Mk 2 torpedo decoy
Ships:
Homeported at the Naval Submarine Base, Bangor, WA:
USS Ohio (SSBN-726)
USS Michigan (SSBN-727)
USS Florida (SSBN-728)
USS Georgia (SSBN-729)
USS Henry M. Jackson (SSBN-730)
USS Alabama (SSBN-731)
USS Alaska (SSBN 732)
USS Nevada (SSBN 733) I
Homeported at the Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, GA:
USS Tennessee (SSBN-734)
USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735)
USS West Virginia (SSBN-736)
USS Kentucky (SSBN-737)
USS Maryland (SSBN-738)
USS Nebraska (SSBN-739)
USS Rhode Island (SSBN-740)
USS Maine (SSBN-741)
USS Wyoming (SSBN-742)
USS Louisiana (SSBN-743)
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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SSN637 - Sturgeon Class F
Function: America's front-line fast attack nuclear submarine during the '60s and '70s.
History: Following in the steps of the Skipjack and Permit class nuclear submarines, the Sturgeon class incorporated a a new hull design and sensor package. Larger than either of the two earlier designs while using the same reactor plant, the Sturgeon sacrificed speed for increased weapons payload and crew efficiency. Beginning with the Archerfish (SSN678) the hull was lengthened an additional 10 feet. In addition to their regular duties as anti submarine platforms, the Sturgeon class submarines were also tasked with coastal reconnaissance and electronic intelligence gathering. Furthermore, between 1982 and 1991 six 637 class boats (SSN 678-680, 682, 684, and 686) were modified to carry the SEAL Dry Deck Shelter (DDS.) The DDS is a submersible air lock and storage area allowing for the transporting, delivery and recovery of SEAL teams and all their associated equipment. The Sturgeon class submarines were slowly phased out of front line service by the faster, more capable Los Angeles class submarines during the 80's and 90's though those still in service continue to perform intelligence gathering and support special operations missions.
General Characteristics, Sturgeon Class
Builders:
General Dynamics Electric Boat Division
General Dynamics Quincy Shipbuilding Division
Ingalls Shipbuilding
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
San Francisco Naval Shipyard
Newport News Shipbuilding
Power Plant:
One S5W nuclear reactor, two steam turbines, one shaft, 15,000 shaft horse power
Date Deployed:
March 3, 1967 (USS Sturgeon)
Length, Overall:
292 feet (89 meters)
SSN 678-687 302 feet (91.44 meters)
Beam:
32 feet (9.75 meters)
Draft:
28.8 feet
Displacement:
4,780 tons submerged
SSN 678-687 4,960 tons submerged
Speed:
20+ knots (23.02+ miles per hour, 37.05 +kph)
Crew:
12 Officers, 95 Enlisted
Armament:
Mk 48 ADCAP Torpedoes, launched from four 533mm torpedo tubes.
Harpoon anti-ship missiles (tube launched)
Tomahawk anti-ship/ land attack missiles (tube launched)
Sensors:
BSY-2 combat data system
Radar:
1 AN/BPS-14/15 navigation and fire control radar
Sonar:
1 TB-16 passive towed sonar array
1 TB-23 passive "thin line" towed sonar array
1 AN/BQG-5 wide aperture flank array
1 AN/BQQ-2/5 low frequency spherical bow sonar array
1 AN/BQS-12/13 active sonar array
1 AN/BQR-6 active sonar array (in submarines equipped with the BQQ-2)
1 AN/BQR-7 passive sonar array (in submarines equipped with the BQQ-2)
Optics:
1 Type 2 attack periscope
1 Type 18 search periscope
Countermeasures:
WLR-9 acoustic intercept receiver
WLQ-4 ESM
Ships:
USS Parche (SSN-683), Bangor, WA
USS L. Mendel Rivers (SSN-686), Norfolk, VA
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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SSN640 - Benjamin Frankli
Function: Benjamin Franklin class Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarine converted for special operations support.
History: Commissioned on December 10, 1965 as the second of the Benjamin Franklin class Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN) the USS Kamehameha served as an SSBN through 1992, conducting a total of 63 deterrent patrols. Following her withdrawl from the SSBN fleet, Kamehameha was extensivly modified to support Navy special operations missions. To create additional living space the entire ballistic missile section was removed and turned into living quarters where embarked special operations personnel could rest, train, plan operations, and maintain their equipment in relative comfort (especially when compared to the cramped quarters associated with the much smaller Sturgeon and Los Angeles class Fast Attack Submarines.) In addition, Kamehameha was modified to accommodate two Dry Deck Shelters (DDS) as well as 2 SEAL Delivery Vehicles. With the decommissioning of her sister ship, the USS James K Polk (SSN645) in 1999, the Kamehameha remains the only converted SSBN in active service.
General Characteristics, Benjamin Franklin Class
Builders:
Mare Island Naval Shipyard
Power Plant:
One S5W nuclear reactor, two steam turbines, one shaft, 15,000 shaft horse power
Date Deployed:
December 12, 1965 (USS Kamehameha)
Length, Overall:
425 feet (129.6 meters)
Beam:
33 feet (10.06 meters)
Draft:
28.8 feet
Displacement:
8,250 tons submerged
Speed:
25 knots submerged
Crew:
140
Armament:
Mk 48 ADCAP Torpedoes, launched from four 533mm torpedo tubes
Harpoon anti-ship missiles (tube launched)
Tomahawk anti-ship/ land attack missiles (launched from a 12 tube Vertical Launch System (VLS) )
Sonar:
1 AN/BQR-15 passive towed sonar array
1 AN/BQR-19 active sonar array
1 AN/BQR-7 passive sonar array
Ships:
USS Kamehameha (SSN-642), Pearl Harbor, HI
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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SSN688 - Los Angeles Clas
Function: Nuclear powered Fast Attack submarine.
History: Deployed on November 13, 1976, the Los Angeles (SSN688) fast attack submarine marked a technological leap forward in submarine design. Built from the screw forward as a dedicated antisubmarine warfare (ASW) platform, the Los Angeles class submarines were designed to guard American Carrier Battle Groups by hunting Soviet submarines and anti-surface warfare (ASUW) capitol ships like the Kirov class BCGN. The Los Angeles submarines were faster, quieter, carried more sophisticated sensors and possessed better weapons than any other submarine in existence. In addition to their primary function as offensive ASW weapons the 688 boats perform a number of additional duties to include sub surface precision land attack strikes (using tube launched Tomahawk cruise missiles), intelligence gathering, mine warfare, and special operations support (SEAL deployment and recovery). In fact, their performance was so revolutionary that beginning with USS Providence (SSN719) the hull was lengthened to accommodate 12 vertical launch system (VLS) tubes to allow the submarines to launch Tomahawk land attack cruise missiles. Nearing the end of their 30-year lives, the Los Angeles class submarines are slowly being replaced by the Improved Los Angeles (San Juan SSN751), the Seawolf (SSN21) and ultimately by the Virginia class (SSN774).
General Characteristics, Los Angeles Class
Cost:
About $900 million each
Builders:
General Dynamics Electric Boat Division
Power Plant:
One S6G nuclear reactor, one shaft, 35,000 shaft horse power
Date Deployed:
November 13, 1976 (USS Los Angeles)
Length, Overall:
360 feet (109.73 meters)
Beam:
33 feet (10.06 meters)
Draft:
35 feet (10.67 meters)
Displacement:
6,927 tons (7,010.73 metric tons) submerged
Speed:
32 knots submerged
Crew:
13 Officers; 121 Enlisted
Armament:
Mk 48 ADCAP Torpedoes, launched from four 533mm torpedo tubes
Harpoon anti-ship missiles (tube launched)
Tomahawk anti-ship/ land attack missiles (tube launched SSN688 - SSN718, VLS launched SSN719 - SSN751)
Sensors:
BSY-1 combat data system
Radar:
1 AN/BPS-5 surface search radar
1 AN/BPS-15 navigation and fire control radar
Sonar:
1 TB-16 passive towed sonar array
1 TB-23 passive "thin line" towed sonar array
1 AN/BQG-5 wide aperture flank array
1 AN/BQQ-5 low frequency spherical bow sonar array
1 AN/BQS-15 close range active sonar (ice detection)
Mine and Ice Detection and Avoidance System (MIDAS)
SADS-TG active detection sonar)
Optics:
1 Type 2 attack periscope
1 Type 18 search periscope
Countermeasures:
WLR-9 acoustic intercept receiver
WLQ-4 ESM
WLY-1 torpedo decoy
Ships:
USS Los Angeles (SSN-688), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Philadelphia (SSN-690), Groton, CT
USS Memphis (SSN-691), Groton, CT
USS Bremerton (SSN-698), San Diego, CA
USS Jacksonville (SSN-699), Norfolk, VA
USS Dallas (SSN-700), Groton, CT
USS La Jolla (SSN-701), San Diego, CA
USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN-705), Groton, CT
USS Albuquerque (SSN-706), Groton, CT
USS Portsmouth (SSN-707), San Diego, CA
USS Minneapolis-St. Paul (SSN-708), Norfolk, VA
USS Hyman G. Rickover (SSN-709), Norfolk, VA
USS Augusta (SSN 710), Groton, CT
USS San Francisco (SSN-711), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Houston (SSN-713), San Diego, CA
USS Norfolk (SSN-714), Norfolk, VA
USS Buffalo (SSN-715), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716), San Diego, CA
USS Olympia (SSN-717), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Honolulu (SSN-718), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Providence (SSN-719), Groton, CT
USS Pittsburgh (SSN-720), Groton, CT
USS Chicago (SSN-721), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Key West (SSN-722), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Oklahoma City (SSN-723), Norfolk, VA
USS Louisville (SSN-724), Pearl Harbor, HI
USS Helena (SSN-725), San Diego, CA
USS Newport News (SSN-750), Norfolk, VA
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