Did you know that the United States has two different types of nuclear-powered submarines? The first type is called a SSN, which stands for “nuclear-powered attack submarine.” These subs are used for spying and launching attacks against other ships. The second type is called a SSBN, which stands for “nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine.” These subs carry ballistic missiles that can be fired at enemies far away. So, what’s the difference between these two types of subs? Keep reading to find out!
What is SSN?
SSN submarines are a type of nuclear-powered submarine that is designed for use in both open oceans and narrow waterways. SSN stands for “submit to shore nerve.” SSN submarines are smaller than other types of nuclear-powered submarines and are armed with torpedoes, missiles, and mines. SSN submarines are used for a variety of missions, including intelligence gathering, covert operations, and attacks. SSN submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including sonar, periscopes, and radar. SSN submarines are some of the most advanced submarines in the world and are capable of carrying out a wide range of missions.
What is SSBN?
SSBN submarines are designed for one primary mission – to carry nuclear ballistic missiles and to deter a nuclear attack. SSBNs are larger than attack submarines and have crews of over 150 officers and enlisted personnel. SSBNS is equipped with our country’s most sophisticated sensor, communications, and weapons systems. They are multi-mission platforms, also capable of conducting anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, special forces insertion, and mine warfare missions. SSBNs play a critical role in our nation’s nuclear deterrence posture and the strategic stability of the global order.
Difference between SSN and SSBN
SSN and SSBN are two types of submarines that are used by the US Navy. SSNs are nuclear-powered attack submarines, while SSBNs are nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. SSNs are designed to prowl the oceans undetected, hunting down and sinking enemy ships. SSBNs, on the other hand, are designed to stay hidden and to deter enemy attacks by carrying nuclear missiles. As a result, SSBNs typically have a longer range than SSNs and can stay submerged for extended periods of time. Both types of submarines are equipped with state-of-the-art sonar and radar systems, as well as highly sophisticated weapons systems.
Conclusion
The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, or SSBNs, are the most important leg of the nuclear triad. These subs silently patrol the world’s oceans, ready to retaliate if our country is attacked with nuclear weapons. The problem is that these boats are getting old and need to be replaced. In fact, the first of the new Ohio-class replacement boats won’t enter service until 2031. Until then, we’re stuck with the aging fleet of SSBNs. So what’s going to happen in the meantime? That’s where the SSN comes in. The Navy is planning to use its attack submarines, or SSNs, as a stopgap measure for nuclear deterrence. These boats aren’t designed for long patrols carrying ballistic missiles; they’re built for speed and agility so they can hunt down and destroy enemy ships and submarines.