OVERVIEW: The SSBN 734 Tennessee [Ohio Class] is a ballistic missile submarine operated by the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1989, it represents a significant component of the US nuclear deterrence strategy.

DETAILS:
The Ohio-class submarines were conceived in the 1970s as a replacement for the aging fleet of *Lafayette*, *James Madison*, and *Benjamin Franklin*-class SSBNs. A key driver in their development was the need for a quieter and more capable submarine platform to carry the Trident II D5 ballistic missile, providing increased range and accuracy to maintain a credible strategic deterrent against the Soviet Union. The Ohio-class design prioritizes stealth, featuring advanced sound dampening techniques and a highly efficient nuclear reactor for extended submerged operations. The vessels are significantly larger than their predecessors, providing greater internal volume for crew comfort and advanced systems. Initial boats were fitted for the Trident C4 missile, but were later upgraded to carry the D5.

The Tennessee's primary role is strategic deterrence, achieved through the undetectable patrol and potential launch of its Trident D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). While not optimized for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air warfare (AAW), or anti-surface warfare (ASuW) roles, the vessel possesses limited self-defense capabilities. The 533mm Mk68 torpedo tubes allow for the deployment of conventional torpedoes for engaging surface or subsurface threats, although these are primarily intended for self-defense rather than proactive offensive operations. The 3-inch signal ejector is used for communications purposes, allowing for the launch of expendable communication devices.

The vessel’s sensor suite focuses on passive and active detection capabilities. The AN/BQQ-6 sonar system provides comprehensive underwater surveillance, encompassing active and passive modes for target detection, classification, and tracking. The AN/BQR-19 and AN/BQR-15A towed arrays enhance passive detection capabilities, extending the submarine’s ability to detect distant contacts. The AN/BPS-15A surface search radar provides limited surface detection capabilities when the submarine is at periscope depth. Electronic support measures (ESM) are provided by the AN/WLR-8(V)5 and AN/WLR-10 systems, enabling the detection and analysis of radar emissions from potential threats. The AN/WLR-17 serves as a radar warning receiver. The Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical and Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV provide visual and low-light visual situational awareness, respectively. The inclusion of the CSA Mk2 Mod 0 [Mk151] chaff and decoy launchers further enhances the submarine's self-defense capabilities against incoming torpedoes and other threats.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 170.0 m || Beam: 13.0 m || Draft: 10.8 m || Disp: 16765 t

SENSORS: AN/BPS-15A || AN/WLR-8(V)5 || AN/BQQ-6 || AN/WLR-10 || AN/BQR-19 || AN/BQR-15A || AN/WLR-17 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: Trident D5 || 533mm Mk68 TT || 533mm Mk68 TT || CSA Mk2 Mod 0 [Mk151] || 3-inch Signal Ejector || CSA Mk2 Mod 0 [Mk151]