OVERVIEW: The SSBN 734 Tennessee [Ohio Class] is a ballistic missile submarine operated by the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1996, the Tennessee represents a cornerstone of the US nuclear deterrent strategy, providing a survivable and credible second-strike capability.

DETAILS: The Ohio-class submarine program was initiated in the early 1970s to replace the aging fleet of George Washington and Ethan Allen-class SSBNs. The design prioritized stealth, survivability, and extended operational endurance. The Ohio-class represents a significant leap in submarine technology, featuring a drastically quieter propulsion system, advanced sonar capabilities, and the ability to carry a large number of Trident II D5 ballistic missiles. These submarines are designed for extended deployments in the deep ocean, operating independently for months at a time, making them exceptionally difficult to detect and track. The Tennessee, as a later build unit, incorporates improvements and refinements developed over the course of the program, likely including upgraded internal systems and potentially modified hull coatings for enhanced acoustic performance.

The Tennessee’s primary role is strategic nuclear deterrence. Its complement of Trident D5 ballistic missiles provides a secure and highly accurate means of delivering nuclear warheads to targets thousands of miles away. Although primarily designed for strategic roles, the Tennessee also possesses a secondary capability for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and limited anti-surface warfare (ASuW) using its torpedo armament. Its advanced sensor suite allows for the detection and tracking of potential threats, enabling it to evade or engage as necessary. The 533mm Mk68 torpedo tubes can launch a variety of torpedoes, including the Mk48 ADCAP, providing a potent anti-submarine capability. The sub also likely has capabilities for covert operations, such as deploying special forces teams via the dry deck shelter option available on some Ohio-class submarines.

The installation of the AN/BQQ-5E(V)4 sonar suite, including the AN/BQS-13 spherical array, allows for long-range detection and tracking of underwater contacts. The AN/BQR-19 and AN/BQR-15A passive sonars provide further enhanced capabilities for detecting and classifying distant targets. The AN/WLR-8(V)5 and AN/WLR-10 electronic support measures (ESM) systems provide situational awareness by detecting and analyzing radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft. The AN/BPS-15A surface search radar provides a limited surface detection capability. The inclusion of Generic Submarine Periscope (Optical and LLTV) supports visual observation both at day and under low-light conditions. The CSA Mk2 Mod 0 [Mk151] Countermeasure Signal Alerter system would provide notification of torpedo launches and provide options for deploying countermeasures, enhancing survivability.

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/WLR-10 || AN/BQR-19 || AN/BQR-15A || AN/WLR-17 || AN/BQQ-5E(V)4 [AN/BQS-13] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

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