OVERVIEW: The SSN 685 *Glenard P. Lipscomb* is a nuclear-powered attack submarine of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1987. While designated as a single-hull attack submarine, its design reflected an emphasis on advanced sensor technology and acoustic stealth, rather than speed. The *Glenard P. Lipscomb* operated during a period of intense Cold War submarine activity and contributed significantly to advancements in US submarine capabilities.

DETAILS:
The *Glenard P. Lipscomb* represented a departure from previous US Navy submarine designs. Its development focused on maximizing acoustic quietness and incorporating the latest sensor technology. The design choices reflect the US Navy's increased emphasis on countering the increasingly sophisticated Soviet submarine threat. Although outwardly similar in dimensions to contemporary *Los Angeles*-class submarines, the *Glenard P. Lipscomb* incorporated a number of internal modifications and experimental technologies which significantly altered its operating profile. Its unique design served as a testbed for technologies that were later incorporated into the *Seawolf*-class submarines, including advanced noise reduction techniques and improved sonar processing capabilities. The single example built limited the proliferation of sensitive design details but allowed for focused research and development.

The primary role of the *Glenard P. Lipscomb* was Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), operating in deep ocean environments to track and potentially engage Soviet submarines. Secondary roles included Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW) and intelligence gathering. The boat's enhanced acoustic signature reduction gave it a significant advantage in detecting and tracking enemy submarines at longer ranges. Data collected during operational deployments contributed to the refinement of US ASW tactics and sonar systems. The *Glenard P. Lipscomb* also participated in covert operations, gathering intelligence on Soviet naval activities and technological advancements.

The *Glenard P. Lipscomb*'s suite of sensors provided a comprehensive underwater surveillance capability. The AN/BQQ-5C(V)2 sonar system, incorporating the BQS-12 active sonar, allowed for long-range detection and tracking of submerged targets, while the AN/BQS-14 provided close-range navigation and mine avoidance. The AN/TB-16 towed array sonar further enhanced the submarine's passive detection capabilities. Surface search and navigation were aided by the AN/BPS-14 radar. The AN/WLR-9A electronic support measures (ESM) suite provided detection and identification of radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft. Two generic submarine periscopes, one optical and one incorporating Low-Light Television (LLTV), provided visual surveillance capabilities. The AN/BRD-6 direction finding system allowed the crew to locate and identify radio transmissions. The submarine's armament consisted of 533mm Mk67 torpedo tubes, capable of launching Mk67 torpedoes for both ASW and ASuW engagements. A 3-inch signal ejector was also fitted.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 111.0 m || Beam: 9.8 m || Draft: 8.8 m || Disp: 5906 t

SENSORS: AN/WLR-9A || AN/BQQ-5C(V)2 [BQS-12] || AN/TB-16 || AN/BQS-14 || AN/BPS-14 || AN/BRD-6 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm Mk67 TT || 533mm Mk67 TT || 3-inch Signal Ejector