How Big is an Ohio Class Submarine?
The Ohio class submarine is a type of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine operated by the United States Navy. With a length of over 560 feet and a diameter of over 42 feet, these behemoths of the sea are truly massive. In this article, we will explore the size and features of an Ohio class submarine, highlighting its impressive dimensions and capabilities.
Physical Dimensions
Contents
Length and Diameter
The Ohio class submarine measures 567 feet (173 meters) in length, making it one of the longest submarines in the world. Its diameter is 42.7 feet (13 meters), which is slightly larger than a standard basketball court.
Height and Draft
The submarine’s height above the waterline is approximately 17 feet (5.2 meters), while its draft (the distance between the waterline and the bottom of the hull) is around 29 feet (8.8 meters).
Volume and Displacement
The Ohio class submarine has a total volume of 4,200 tons, which is equivalent to the size of a large office building. Its displacement is around 15,000 tons, making it one of the largest submarines in the world.
Hull and Propulsion
Hull Design
The Ohio class submarine has a long, slender hull made of high-strength steel, designed to withstand the immense pressure of the deep ocean. The hull is divided into 14 compartments, each with its own specialized equipment and systems.
Nuclear Propulsion
The submarine is powered by a Westinghouse S8G pressurized water nuclear reactor, which provides energy for the vessel’s electric motors. The reactor produces 62,000 horsepower, allowing the submarine to reach speeds of up to 25 knots (46 km/h).
Missile Systems
Trident II Missiles
The Ohio class submarine is equipped with 24 Trident II (D5) ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying up to 8 warheads. These missiles have a range of over 4,000 miles (6,400 km) and are designed to target enemy ships, submarines, and coastal installations.
Other Capabilities
- Communication Systems: The submarine is equipped with advanced communication systems, including satellite and submarine-to-submarine communication networks.
- Sensor Suites: The Ohio class submarine has a range of sensors, including sonar, radar, and electronic warfare systems, which enable it to detect and track enemy vessels and submarines.
- Specialized Equipment: The submarine is equipped with specialized equipment, such as torpedoes, mines, and antisubmarine warfare systems.
Comparison to Other Submarines
Comparison to Other Submarines
To put the size of the Ohio class submarine into perspective, here is a comparison with other notable submarines:
| Submarine | Length (ft) | Diameter (ft) | Volume (tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio Class | 567 | 42.7 | 4,200 |
| Los Angeles Class | 362 | 33.5 | 1,800 |
| Seawolf Class | 366 | 34 | 2,200 |
| Russian Typhoon | 560 | 50 | 48,000 |
As you can see, the Ohio class submarine is significantly larger than most other submarines, with a larger volume and displacement than even the massive Russian Typhoon class.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ohio class submarine is an imposing vessel, with a length of over 560 feet and a diameter of over 42 feet. Its massive size and advanced technology make it a formidable platform for naval warfare. While it may not be the largest submarine in the world, its capabilities and specifications make it one of the most impressive and feared vessels in the ocean.
