Can Submarines Launch Nuclear-Armed Cruise Missiles While Submerged?

Submarines, being versatile platforms for military operations, are capable of launching both nuclear and conventional cruise missiles while submerged. This capability is a strategic asset that ensures a submarine's survivability and effectiveness during military conflicts. Let's explore the capabilities of submarines in launching missiles and the specifics of nuclear-armed cruise missiles.

Submarines and Missile Launches

Modern submarines, including those of the US Navy, are equipped to launch various types of cruise missiles. These submarines can launch missiles from both torpedo tubes and vertical launch systems, utilizing different propulsion methods to ensure successful deployment.

For instance, the Ohio-class submarine can carry and launch up to 20 Trident II SLBM (Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles). Each Trident II SLBM can carry up to 12 MIRVed (Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicles) W88 nuclear warheads, each with a yield of 475 kilotonnes. The range of these missiles is approximately 6100 nautical miles (11300 km, 7000 mi). It's worth noting that the number of warheads per submarine can be restricted by international treaties.

Mechanics of Missile Launch

The launch process begins with the missile being initially propelled by compressed gas. Once the missile clears the launch vessel, a solid rocket booster ignites, propelling the missile out of the water. At this point, the missile's wings deploy, allowing the jet engine to take over, ensuring a streamlined trajectory.

Nuclear-Armed Cruise Missiles

While the primary focus of nuclear-armed missiles is generally on strategic deterrence and long-range strikes, modern submarines also have the capability to launch conventional cruise missiles while submerged. These missiles, however, do not necessarily need to be nuclear to be deployed by submarines in combat scenarios.

The ability to launch cruise missiles from a submerged position is a critical advantage. For nuclear-armed cruise missiles, submarines can use both torpedo tubes and separate tubes located between the pressure hull and the outer hull. Some U.S. attack submarines have dedicated tubes for cruise missiles in the forward ballast tanks, while others have converted former ballistic missile submarines to carry seven cruise missiles each.

Surface Exits and Communication

While the submarine remains submerged for strategic reasons, the process of launching missiles involves some surface activity. Once the missile is launched from its tube, the submarine ascends to the surface to ensure a safe distance from any potential detonation. Initially, the crew uses physical methods to assist the ascent, such as pounding on the hull with wrenches.

In preparation for launch, the submarine broadcasts on multiple radio frequency channels for several minutes to ensure clear communication and coordination. This process is crucial for ensuring the successful and safe launch of the missile.

It is important to note that these submarine capabilities extend beyond the US Navy. Russian submarines, for instance, have been known to launch missiles in Ukraine. The involvement of submarines in military operations, regardless of the type of payload, underscores their critical role in modern warfare.

Conclusion

The ability of submarines to launch nuclear-armed or conventional cruise missiles while submerged is a testament to the advanced technology and strategic planning behind modern naval warfare. Understanding these capabilities is essential for comprehending the dynamic nature of modern military operations.