OVERVIEW: The SSBN 734 *Tennessee* [Ohio Class] is a ballistic missile submarine operated by the United States Navy.

DETAILS: The *Ohio*-class submarines were designed in the late 1970s and early 1980s as the backbone of the United States' sea-based nuclear deterrent force. Their development was driven by the need to field a submarine platform capable of carrying the Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), a significant upgrade in range and accuracy compared to its predecessor. The *Ohio* class was intended to replace the older *Lafayette*, *James Madison*, and *Benjamin Franklin* classes, offering increased stealth, reduced acoustic signature, and enhanced survivability. The design emphasized a large missile compartment to accommodate the Trident D5, along with improved habitability for extended deployments. The adoption of a pump-jet propulsor instead of a traditional propeller further reduced the submarine’s acoustic signature, making it harder to detect. The *Tennessee* was originally commissioned in 1988, underwent conversion to carry conventional payloads, and recommissioned to this role in 2008.

The primary role of the *Tennessee* is to provide a survivable and credible nuclear deterrent. Its Trident D5 SLBMs are capable of delivering multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), ensuring a retaliatory strike capability against a wide range of targets. While originally designed for nuclear deterrence, the conversion to a conventional role has given the *Tennessee* a secondary capability for covert insertion of special forces, intelligence gathering, and potential Tomahawk land attack missile strikes against land targets. The platform’s stealth and endurance allow it to operate in high-threat environments, supporting a variety of strategic and tactical missions.

The *Tennessee*'s sensor suite is tailored to its mission profile. The AN/BQQ-10 sonar suite provides comprehensive underwater situational awareness, including long-range detection and tracking of other submarines and surface vessels. The AN/BQR-19 towed array enhances low-frequency detection capabilities, while the AN/TB-29A thin line towed array offers improved performance in littoral environments. The AN/BLQ-10(V)5 electronic warfare system is vital for detecting, analyzing, and geolocating enemy radar and communication signals. The AN/BPS-15A radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The AN/WLY-1 acoustic intercept system allows the submarine to detect and analyze enemy sonar signals, providing valuable intelligence on adversary submarine operations. The vessel also has a generic submarine periscope with optical and LLTV sensors for navigation and surveillance. The 533mm Mk68 torpedo tubes provide a self-defense capability against enemy submarines and surface ships.

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

SENSORS: AN/TB-29A || AN/WLY-1 || AN/BQQ-10 || AN/BPS-15A || AN/BQR-19 || AN/BLQ-10(V)5 || 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]