Intro
Discover the USS Maine Submarines rich history and technical specifications. Learn about its construction, launch, and deployment as a pre-dreadnought battleship turned submarine. Explore its unique design, capabilities, and significance in naval warfare, including its conversion, armament, and role in World War I. Dive into the USS Maines fascinating story and specs.
The USS Maine submarine has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. As one of the first submarines commissioned by the United States Navy, it played a significant role in the development of underwater warfare. In this article, we will delve into the history and specifications of the USS Maine submarine, exploring its design, construction, and operational history.
Early Years and Construction

The USS Maine submarine was laid down on January 20, 1908, at the Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts. It was designed by Electric Boat Company and was one of the first submarines to be built with a double hull. The submarine was launched on November 26, 1909, and commissioned on December 30, 1910.
Design and Specifications
Design Overview
The USS Maine submarine was a single-screw submarine with a length of 134 feet (41 meters) and a beam of 13 feet 10 inches (4.2 meters). It had a draft of 12 feet 6 inches (3.8 meters) and a displacement of 286 tons. The submarine was powered by a 200-horsepower electric motor and had a top speed of 10.5 knots (19.4 kilometers per hour) on the surface and 7.5 knots (13.9 kilometers per hour) submerged.
Main Armament
The USS Maine submarine was armed with two 18-inch (457-millimeter) torpedo tubes and carried four torpedoes. It also had a single 3-pounder (47-millimeter) gun mounted on the deck.
Crew and Accommodations
The USS Maine submarine had a crew of 14 officers and men. The crew accommodations were basic, with the men sleeping in hammocks and the officers in small staterooms. The submarine had a small galley (kitchen) and a single head (bathroom).
Operational History
Early Operations
The USS Maine submarine began its operational career in 1911, conducting training exercises and patrols along the East Coast of the United States. In 1912, it participated in the first-ever submarine training exercises held by the US Navy.
World War I
During World War I, the USS Maine submarine was assigned to the US Navy's submarine squadron in the Atlantic. It conducted patrols and reconnaissance missions off the coast of Germany and was credited with sinking several German U-boats.
Interwar Period
After the war, the USS Maine submarine was decommissioned and placed in reserve. It was recommissioned in 1922 and served as a training submarine until 1928, when it was decommissioned again.
Specifications

- Length: 134 feet (41 meters)
- Beam: 13 feet 10 inches (4.2 meters)
- Draft: 12 feet 6 inches (3.8 meters)
- Displacement: 286 tons
- Speed: 10.5 knots (19.4 kilometers per hour) on the surface, 7.5 knots (13.9 kilometers per hour) submerged
- Armament: 2 x 18-inch (457-millimeter) torpedo tubes, 1 x 3-pounder (47-millimeter) gun
- Crew: 14 officers and men
Gallery of USS Maine Submarine
USS Maine Submarine Image Gallery









Frequently Asked Questions
What was the USS Maine submarine's primary mission?
+The USS Maine submarine's primary mission was to conduct training exercises and patrols along the East Coast of the United States.
What was the USS Maine submarine's top speed?
+The USS Maine submarine's top speed was 10.5 knots (19.4 kilometers per hour) on the surface and 7.5 knots (13.9 kilometers per hour) submerged.
What was the USS Maine submarine's armament?
+The USS Maine submarine was armed with two 18-inch (457-millimeter) torpedo tubes and carried four torpedoes. It also had a single 3-pounder (47-millimeter) gun mounted on the deck.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the USS Maine submarine's history and specifications. Its legacy as one of the first submarines commissioned by the US Navy continues to be celebrated by naval historians and enthusiasts today.