OVERVIEW: The SSBN 726 Ohio is a ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) of the Ohio class, in service with the United States Navy as of 2020. She represents the backbone of the US nuclear deterrence strategy.

DETAILS: The Ohio-class submarine was conceived in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a replacement for the aging George Washington and Ethan Allen-class SSBNs. The program aimed to create a larger, quieter, and more survivable platform capable of carrying a significantly increased payload of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The Ohio class design emphasizes acoustic quieting to enhance its ability to evade detection in hostile waters. This was achieved through a combination of advanced hull design, vibration isolation techniques, and the use of specialized materials. The Ohio-class was initially designed to carry the Trident C4 SLBM, but later refitted to carry the more capable Trident D5 missile. The Ohio, being listed with a 2020 commissioning date, reflects a likely extensive overhaul and modernization program to extend its service life, bringing its systems to near parity with later builds and incorporating the latest technological advancements.

The primary role of the SSBN 726 Ohio is strategic nuclear deterrence, providing a survivable and retaliatory nuclear strike capability. The platform's inherent stealth and long endurance allow it to patrol vast stretches of ocean undetected, ensuring second-strike capabilities in the event of a major nuclear attack. While not designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) or anti-surface warfare (ASuW) in the traditional sense, the Ohio does possess self-defense capabilities. Its advanced sensor suite allows for situational awareness, enabling it to avoid potential threats.

The SSBN 726 Ohio's capabilities are significantly enhanced by its sensor suite. The AN/BQQ-10 sonar system provides comprehensive underwater surveillance, detection, and tracking of potential threats. The AN/BQR-19 navigation sonar provides precise navigation data. The AN/BLQ-10(V)5 electronic support measures (ESM) system detects, identifies, and geolocates radio frequency emitters, enhancing situational awareness. The AN/TB-29A towed array sonar provides long-range detection capabilities, while the AN/WLY-1 acoustic intercept receiver further enhances the submarine's ability to detect and classify underwater sounds. The AN/BPS-15A surface search radar offers surface detection capabilities, especially when operating at periscope depth. Dual Generic Submarine Periscopes, one optical and one LLTV (Low Light Television), provide visual surface observation capabilities. For self-defense, the 533mm Mk68 torpedo tubes can launch Mk48 Advanced Capability (ADCAP) torpedoes. Finally, the vessel is equipped with a 3-inch Signal Ejector, which is capable of projecting signals, decoys and other countermeasures.

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