USS Ohio (SSBN-726/SSGN-726) and USS Jacksonville (SSN-699) Overview
General Information: USS Ohio (SSBN-726/SSGN-726)
Class and Role: The USS Ohio is the lead submarine of the Ohio-class, initially serving as a nuclear-powered fleet ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) before its conversion to a guided missile submarine (SSGN).
Construction and Commissioning:
- Construction began with the keel laying on April 10, 1976, at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, CT.
- The submarine was launched on April 7, 1979.
- It was commissioned on November 11, 1981.
Conversion: In December 2005, the USS Ohio underwent a significant transformation. This conversion enhanced its capability to carry and launch cruise missiles, making it an SSGN [Wikipedia].
Size Comparison: USS Ohio vs. USS Jacksonville
Dimensions:
- USS Ohio: This submarine displaces 18,750 tons when submerged, earning it the title of the largest U.S. submarine.
- USS Jacksonville: A Los Angeles-class attack submarine (SSN), this vessel is notably 20 feet shorter than earlier SSBNs, highlighting a significant size difference [Reddit].
Photo Reference: A striking 1978 photo by General Dynamics captures the fitting out of the USS Ohio alongside the USS Jacksonville. This image vividly illustrates the notable size disparity between the two submarines.
Conversion to Guided Missile Submarine (SSGN)
Significance: The conversion of the first four Ohio-class submarines, including the USS Ohio, to SSGNs in the 2000s marked a pivotal strategic shift. This enhancement significantly bolstered their ability to conduct strike missions using Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Missile Systems: Initially, these submarines were equipped with Trident I missiles. However, starting with the USS Tennessee (SSBN-734), they were upgraded to the more advanced Trident II missiles [Nuclear Companion].
Decommissioning and Replacement
Current Status: The Ohio-class submarines are scheduled to begin decommissioning in 2027. The USS Ohio will lead this retirement phase, marking the end of an era.
Replacement: The Columbia-class submarines are set to replace the Ohio-class. Construction on these new submarines began in 2020, ensuring the continuation of strategic deterrence capabilities [Wikipedia].
Looking at the bigger picture, this overview offers a detailed understanding of the USS Ohio’s multifaceted role. From its size comparison with the USS Jacksonville to its conversion and future decommissioning plans, the USS Ohio stands as a testament to naval innovation and strategic foresight.
Technical Specifications
For those eager to delve deeper into the technical intricacies, the USS Ohio boasts impressive specifications. These details underscore its prowess as a formidable submarine [Nuclear Companion].
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