Intro
Discover the USS Pennsylvania submarines fascinating history with these 5 key facts. Learn about its role in WW2, the attack on Pearl Harbor, and its unique design features. Explore the ships combat history, crew life, and eventual decommissioning, and uncover the significance of this iconic battleship in US naval history.
The USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) is a United States Navy Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine that has been in service since 1989. As one of the most advanced submarines in the world, the USS Pennsylvania plays a critical role in the US nuclear deterrence strategy. Here are five interesting facts about the USS Pennsylvania submarine:
Fact #1: Design and Construction
The USS Pennsylvania was built by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Connecticut. The submarine was designed to be 560 feet (170 meters) long and 42 feet (13 meters) wide, with a displacement of over 18,000 tons. The USS Pennsylvania was commissioned on September 9, 1989, and is currently homeported at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington state.
Ohio-Class Submarines
The USS Pennsylvania is one of 18 Ohio-class submarines built by the US Navy. These submarines are designed to serve as the backbone of the US nuclear deterrence strategy, providing a secure second-strike capability in the event of a nuclear attack. The Ohio-class submarines are equipped with 24 Trident missile tubes, which can carry up to 192 nuclear warheads.
Fact #2: Trident Missile System
The USS Pennsylvania is equipped with the Trident missile system, which is a key component of the US nuclear deterrence strategy. The Trident missile is a three-stage, solid-fuel missile that can carry up to eight nuclear warheads. The missile has a range of over 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) and can reach targets in a matter of minutes.
Trident Missile Upgrades
In 2017, the USS Pennsylvania underwent a major upgrade to its Trident missile system. The upgrade included the installation of new missile guidance systems and the replacement of the submarine's existing missile tubes with new ones. The upgrade was designed to extend the life of the submarine and improve its ability to conduct nuclear deterrence missions.
Fact #3: Nuclear Reactor
The USS Pennsylvania is powered by a single nuclear reactor, which provides the energy needed to propel the submarine through the water. The reactor is a pressurized water reactor (PWR) that uses enriched uranium as fuel. The reactor is designed to be highly efficient and reliable, allowing the submarine to operate for extended periods without needing to refuel.
Nuclear Reactor Safety
The USS Pennsylvania's nuclear reactor is designed with multiple safety features to prevent accidents and protect the crew. The reactor is surrounded by a thick steel containment vessel that can withstand extreme pressures and temperatures. The submarine also has a backup cooling system that can be used in the event of a reactor emergency.
Fact #4: Crew and Operations
The USS Pennsylvania has a crew of over 150 sailors, who are responsible for operating and maintaining the submarine. The crew is divided into two main groups: the blue crew and the gold crew. Each crew serves on the submarine for 70-80 days at a time, followed by a 30-40 day break. This allows the sailors to get rest and spend time with their families.
Submarine Operations
The USS Pennsylvania operates in a variety of environments, including the open ocean and in coastal waters. The submarine is designed to be highly stealthy, using advanced materials and designs to reduce its visibility to enemy sonar and radar systems. The submarine is also equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, allowing it to gather intelligence and communicate with other US military units.
Fact #5: Maintenance and Upgrades
The USS Pennsylvania undergoes regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure that it remains operational and effective. The submarine is typically in port for 2-3 months at a time, during which time it undergoes routine maintenance and repairs. The submarine also undergoes more extensive upgrades every 10-15 years, which can include the installation of new systems and the replacement of major components.
Submarine Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining a submarine like the USS Pennsylvania is a complex and challenging task. The submarine's systems and components are highly specialized and require regular maintenance to ensure that they remain operational. The submarine's crew must also be highly trained and skilled to perform the maintenance and repairs, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
USS Pennsylvania Submarine Image Gallery
What is the primary mission of the USS Pennsylvania submarine?
+The primary mission of the USS Pennsylvania submarine is to serve as a ballistic missile submarine, providing a secure second-strike capability in the event of a nuclear attack.
How many crew members are on the USS Pennsylvania submarine?
+The USS Pennsylvania submarine has a crew of over 150 sailors, who are responsible for operating and maintaining the submarine.
What is the range of the Trident missile system on the USS Pennsylvania submarine?
+The Trident missile system on the USS Pennsylvania submarine has a range of over 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers).
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