Columbia-class SSBN

Ballistic missile submarines are critical, stabilizing and efficient elements of the U.S. nuclear deterrence and assurance policy, carrying the majority of deployed U.S. nuclear warheads. Columbia-class SSBNs incorporate advanced technology and will provide the most survivable leg of the Nation's strategic triad.



According to the US Navy, the mission of the Ohio Replacement will be Sea Based Strategic Deterrence:

Replacing Ohio SSBN class, rehosting TRIDENT II D5 (LE) missile system, providing the most survivable leg of the Nation's strategic triad.



Key facts of Ohio Replacement as provided by NAVSEA:

» The Ohio Replacement is the US Chief of Naval Operations number one acquisition priority.

» SSBNs are critical, stabilizing and efficient elements of US Nuclear deterrence and reassurance.

» The current Ohio class SSBN force is reaching the end of its operational life and must be replaced to meet the continuing mission requirements of USSTRATCOM.

» The Ohio Replacement will perform the same mission of today's Ohio class with two fewer ships at $40B in acquisition and life-cycle savings.

» The Ohio Replacement is being designed to have a longer service life, better availability and better survivability than their predecessors.