**OVERVIEW:** The SSN 642 *Kamehameha* [Benjamin Franklin Class] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine operated by the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1994, it represents a later iteration of US Navy submarine design with a focus on advanced sensor capabilities.

**DETAILS:**

The *Benjamin Franklin* class submarines were originally designed as ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). However, some units, like the *Kamehameha*, were converted to attack submarines (SSNs) to compensate for the reduction in the overall submarine fleet following the end of the Cold War. This conversion involved removing the ballistic missile tubes and replacing them with specialized equipment, likely for special operations or advanced sensor suites. The design retains the inherent quietness of the original SSBN platform, offering a significant advantage in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. The class’s large size, originally intended for carrying SLBMs, also provides ample internal volume for accommodating advanced electronics and specialized mission equipment. The *Kamehameha*'s relatively late commission date, even though based on an older hull design, suggests significant modernization and upgrades throughout its service life, particularly in sensor technology and combat systems.

The *Kamehameha*'s primary roles include anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), intelligence gathering, and potentially special operations support. As an attack submarine, its core mission remains locating and engaging enemy submarines. The vessel’s advanced sonar suite is central to its ASW capabilities. The torpedo armament allows for direct engagement of both submarine and surface targets. Furthermore, the submarine's inherent stealth makes it an ideal platform for covert surveillance and intelligence gathering missions in contested waters. While not explicitly designed for anti-air warfare (AAW), it retains a limited self-defense capability against airborne threats.

The *Kamehameha*'s sensor suite is comprehensive. The AN/BQR-15, AN/BQR-7, AN/BQR-21, and AN/BQR-19 passive sonar systems provide long-range detection and classification of underwater targets. The AN/BPS-14 surface search radar allows for navigation and surface contact detection. The AN/WLR-8(V)5, AN/WLR-10, and AN/WLR-9 electronic support measures (ESM) systems enable the submarine to detect and analyze enemy radar emissions, providing valuable intelligence and situational awareness. The installation of generic submarine periscopes (optical and LLTV) enables visual observation of the surface environment in both daylight and low-light conditions. The addition of passengers listed under armament could point to its use as a submarine that transports Special Forces. The 3-inch signal ejector can be used for underwater communications, either to communicate with other submarines or with underwater teams.

**SPECIFICATION:** Length: 130.0 m || Beam: 10.0 m || Draft: 9.4 m || Disp: 7415 t

**SENSORS:** AN/BQR-15 || AN/BQR-7 || AN/BQR-21 || AN/BPS-14 || AN/WLR-8(V)5 || AN/WLR-10 || AN/BQR-19 || AN/WLR-9 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

**ARMAMENT:** Passengers || 533mm Mk68 TT || 3-inch Signal Ejector