OVERVIEW: The SSBN 726 *Ohio* is a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) of the *Ohio*-class, currently in service with the United States Navy. Commissioned in 2019, this vessel represents a significant element of the US nuclear strategic deterrent.

DETAILS:
The *Ohio*-class submarines were designed and developed throughout the 1970s, entering service in the early 1980s as the backbone of the United States' sea-based nuclear deterrent. The design philosophy centered on maximizing survivability, stealth, and operational availability, with the objective of providing a secure platform for launching submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) even under extreme duress. The large size of the *Ohio*-class allows for a significantly increased SLBM payload compared to previous US SSBN classes, as well as improved crew comfort for extended deployments. These submarines are designed for long-duration, independent operations in all ocean environments, making them a credible and persistent deterrent force. Although the original vessels were commissioned much earlier, the SSBN 726 *Ohio* represents a modernised version that has been refitted and re-entered service, indicating significant upgrades to its systems.

The primary role of the SSBN 726 *Ohio* is strategic nuclear deterrence, achieved through the deployment and potential launch of Trident D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles. While not designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air warfare (AAW), or anti-surface warfare (ASuW) in a primary sense, the vessel possesses self-defense capabilities against these threats. Its secondary roles include intelligence gathering and covert operations support. The *Ohio*'s ability to remain submerged for extended periods allows it to gather valuable acoustic intelligence (ACINT) and electronic intelligence (ELINT) through its advanced sensor suite. Furthermore, the vessel could potentially support special operations forces (SOF) through clandestine insertion and extraction.

The SSBN 726 *Ohio*'s sensor suite allows for comprehensive situational awareness. The AN/BQQ-10 sonar suite provides advanced underwater detection, classification, and tracking capabilities. The AN/BQR-19 and AN/TB-29A towed array sonars further extend the vessel's acoustic detection range. Electronic support measures (ESM) are provided by the AN/WLY-1, allowing the submarine to detect and analyze enemy radar emissions. Navigation is aided by the AN/BPS-15A radar, and the AN/BLQ-10(V)5 provides enhanced electronic warfare capabilities. The combination of a Generic Submarine Periscope (Optical) and Generic Submarine Periscope (LLTV) offers both day and low-light visual observation capabilities. For self-defense, the 533mm Mk68 torpedo tubes can launch the CSA Mk2 Mod 0 [Mk151] torpedoes, while the 3-inch Signal Ejector provides a means for underwater communication and decoy deployment. The Trident D5 SLBM constitutes the primary offensive armament.

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