The Navy's experiments in 1946 with sophisticated German World War II U-boats underscored the need to increase the underwater speed of existing fleet submarines by streamlining the topside superstructure and doubling battery capacity. The advent of nuclear power in the mid-1950s freed U.S. submarines from having to surface to recharge batteries, potentially exposing the ships to enemy eyes.
Virtual Walkthrough
Submarine Models
Submarine Models
The Navy developed two major types of nuclear powered submarine: fast attacks (SSN) and ballistic missile submarines (SSBN), often called "boomers." The main task of the smaller attack submarines was to track and if need be sink enemy submarines. The larger boomers were designed to deter or retaliate for a Soviet nuclear attack on the United States and its allies.
click image below to see models of submarine types.
Submarine Cut-away Diagrams
Submarine Cut-away Diagrams
Forty-One for Freedom
Forty-One for Freedom
These forty-one nuclear-powered fleet ballistic missile submarines were named after great men in history. This mighty force for peace was dedicated to the preservation of the ideals and institutions fostered by their namesakes. The original oil portraits were painted by Mr. Audobon Tyler and presented to each submarine.
click the images below to see each submarine namesake.
Central Hall
Global Mission: Overseas Presence
Global Mission: Cold War Buildup of the Fleet
Global Mission: Sea Control
Global Mission: Sea Control
Navy in the Nuclear Age: Covert Submarine Operations
They Made a Difference
Navy in the Nuclear Age: Technology for the Nuclear Age
Navy in the Nuclear Age: Technology for the Nuclear Age
War and Conflict: Crises and Confrontations
Victory in the Cold War
Service and Sacrifice
Hot Wars of the Cold War: The Fight for Korea
Hot Wars of the Cold War: Vietnam War Afloat and Ashore
Ready Room Theater
Naval Historical Foundation
1306 Dahlgren Avenue, SE
Washington Navy Yard
Washington, DC 20374-5055
