World’s 10 biggest submarines

Typhoon Class, Russian Navy

The Typhoon Class submarines, also known as Project 941 ‘Akula’ by NATO, hold the distinction of being the biggest submarines ever built. These giants of the deep were designed and constructed for the Soviet Navy in the 1980s. Although four submarines were initially built, only one, the Dmitry Donskoy, remains in service with the Russian Navy.

With a tremendous submerged displacement of 48,000 tons, the Typhoon Class submarines measure an astounding 175 meters in length. These submarines can attain a top speed of 27 knots, or 31 mph, thanks to two steam engines and two pressurized water nuclear reactors, which together provide approximately 275,000 horsepower. The Typhoon Class is large and technologically advanced enough to remain at sea for three months or more without discomfort.

Evolution and Development

• Design Origins: The Typhoon Class submarines, known in Russia as the Akula class, were developed during the Cold War to respond to the U.S. Navy’s Ohio Class. The design focused on creating a large, powerful vessel capable of carrying many ballistic missiles. The first Typhoon submarine, TK-208, was launched in 1980.
• Construction and Features: These submarines are notable for their enormous size, which includes a double-hull design that increases their survivability and stability. This design also allows for more extensive living and working spaces for the crew, making long-term deployments more comfortable.
• Technological Advancements: The Typhoon Class introduced several technological advancements, such as advanced sonar systems and navigation equipment. These systems enhanced their stealth capabilities, making them harder to detect despite their size.
• Operational Role: The primary mission of Typhoon Class submarines was to serve as a strategic nuclear deterrent. They were equipped with R-39 Rif intercontinental ballistic missiles with a significant range and payload capacity.

Current Status: While most of the Typhoon submarines have been retired or repurposed, the legacy of their design continues to influence modern submarine construction. Their large missile capacity and innovative design features set a benchmark in naval engineering.

Ohio Class, US Navy

The Ohio Class submarines are the largest submarines ever built for the United States Navy. Originally designed as ballistic missile submarines, these submarines have been in service since the late 1970s. Currently, the US Navy operates 18 Ohio Class submarines, which are divided into four cruise missile submarines and 14 ballistic missile submarines.

The Ohio Class submarines are massive and powerful, measuring 170 meters in length and submerged displacing 18,750 tons. A pressurized water reactor and two geared turbines make up their nuclear propulsion system, which powers them. A key part of the United States’ strategic nuclear deterrent, these submarines can reportedly reach speeds of 25 knots (29 mph) and carry 24 Trident II missiles.

Strategic Deterrence Role

• Primary Mission: The Ohio Class submarines are the backbone of the U.S. Navy’s strategic deterrent force. They are designed to remain submerged for extended periods, making them a key element in maintaining a continuous at-sea presence and ensuring a credible nuclear deterrent.
• Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBNs): The ballistic missiles used by submarines of the Ohio Class, the Trident II D5, can carry several MIRVs or independently targetable reentry vehicles. This capability allows for a more flexible and robust response in a nuclear conflict.
• Operational Deployment: These submarines are strategically deployed worldwide, ensuring they can immediately respond to any potential threat. Their long-range capabilities and stealth technology make them difficult to detect, providing a significant strategic advantage.
• Role in Arms Control: The Ohio Class has also played a role in arms control efforts. Under various treaties, such as the START agreements, the U.S. has agreed to reduce the number of these submarines, transitioning some into guided missile submarines (SSGNs) to carry conventional weapons.

Future Prospects: The Ohio Class is set to be replaced by the Columbia Class submarines starting in the 2030s. However, the Ohio Class will continue to serve as a crucial component of the U.S. Navy’s strategic capabilities until then.

Borei Class, Russian Navy

The Borei Class submarines, also operated by the Russian Navy, represent a new generation of strategic ballistic missile submarines. These submarines measure approximately 170 meters in length and have a submerged displacement of around 24,000 tons.

Equipped with advanced missile systems capable of delivering nuclear warheads, the Borei Class submarines are a crucial part of Russia’s naval capabilities. Their ability to reach speeds of 15 knots (17 mph) on land and 29 knots (33 mph) underwater is due to the combination of an OK-650 nuclear reactor, a steam turbine, and a shaft and propeller. The submarines can carry 16 RSM-56 Bulava missiles, further enhancing their strategic importance.

Modernization Efforts

• Next-Generation Submarines: The Borei Class represents a significant step forward in Russian submarine technology, designed to replace the aging Typhoon and Delta classes. These submarines incorporate the latest stealth technology, making them quieter and more difficult to detect.
• Construction and Design: Built using modern construction techniques, the Borei Class submarines feature a single-hull design, reducing their acoustic signature. They are equipped with the Bulava missile system, which is one of the most advanced in the Russian arsenal.
• Advanced Features: The Borei Class includes state-of-the-art sonar and navigation systems, enhancing operational capabilities. They also have a more efficient nuclear reactor, providing excellent range and endurance.
• Role in the Russian Navy: These submarines are intended to form the core of Russia’s sea-based nuclear deterrent for the foreseeable future. Their deployment marks a shift towards more modern and capable platforms in the Russian Navy.

Strategic Importance: The Borei Class submarines are a crucial component of Russia’s strategic forces, capable of delivering nuclear strikes with high precision. Global military analysts closely watch their development and deployment as a critical indicator of Russia’s military capabilities.

Vanguard Class, Royal Navy

The Vanguard Class submarines serve as the backbone of the United Kingdom’s nuclear deterrent. These submarines, which include Vanguard, Victorious, Vigilant, and Vengeance, are based at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland.

Measuring 149.9 meters in length and with a submerged displacement of 15,900 tons, the Vanguard Class submarines are formidable in size and capability. They are powered by a pressurized water reactor, two turbines, and auxiliary retractable propulsion motors. With a submerged speed of 25 knots (29 mph), these submarines carry 16 Trident II missiles, ensuring the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent capability.

Trident Missile System

• Primary Armament: The Vanguard Class submarines are equipped with the Trident missile system, a cornerstone of the United Kingdom’s nuclear deterrent. The nuclear warheads can be delivered to targets all over the world using the sixteen Trident II D5 missiles that each submarine can carry.
• Operational Capability: The Trident missiles are known for their accuracy and range, which extends over 4,000 nautical miles. This allows the Vanguard Class submarines to maintain a stealthy presence and a secure second-strike capability, even in an attack on the U.K.
• Crew Training and Readiness: The operation of the Trident system requires highly specialized crew training. The Royal Navy ensures that the personnel aboard these submarines are well-prepared to handle the responsibilities associated with the strategic deterrent mission.
• Continuous At-Sea Deterrence: One of the critical strategies involving the Vanguard Class is maintaining a constant at-sea deterrence (CASD). This means that at least one Vanguard submarine is always on patrol, ready to respond to any nuclear threat.

Future of the System: The U.K. plans the Dreadnought Class to replace the Vanguard Class submarines. However, the Trident missile system is expected to remain a critical component of the U.K.’s nuclear arsenal for the foreseeable future, with upgrades and maintenance ensuring its viability.

Oscar II Class, Russian Navy

The Oscar II Class submarines, also known as Project 949A Antey, are a successor to the Oscar I Class submarines. Currently, the Russian Navy operates six Oscar II submarines, with four more being converted into the 949AM standard.

With a length of 155 meters and a submerged displacement of 24,000 tons, the Oscar II Class submarines are formidable in size and power. They are designed to break through thick Arctic ice during wartime operations. These submarines carry 24 anti-ship cruise missiles and are armed with 3M-54 Kalibr supersonic cruise missiles. Underwater, Oscar II Class submarines can reach speeds of up to 32 knots (37 mph), making them formidable adversaries.

Cruise Missile Arsenal

• Primary Weaponry: The Oscar II Class submarines are primarily equipped with cruise missiles, particularly the P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 Shipwreck). These missiles are designed for anti-ship warfare and can deliver a substantial payload over long distances.
• Operational Use: These submarines have been designed to target aircraft carrier groups and other significant naval assets, leveraging their missile arsenal’s range and power. The Oscar II’s ability to carry up to 24 missiles makes them a formidable adversary.
• Technological Features: The Oscar II Class is equipped with advanced targeting systems and sonar capabilities, allowing for effective tracking and engagement of targets. The submarines also feature robust defensive systems, including torpedoes and countermeasures.
• Combat Record: The Oscar II Class has seen limited combat use, but they are considered a key component of Russia’s naval strategy. Their role is primarily as a deterrent and a rapid response asset in the event of a conflict.

Modernization and Upgrades: Russia has been working on upgrading the Oscar II Class submarines, including enhancements to their missile systems and onboard technology. These upgrades aim to extend the operational life of these vessels and maintain their relevance in modern naval warfare.

Delta Class, Russian Navy

The Delta Class submarines are a series of ballistic missile submarines that form a crucial part of the Russian Navy’s submarine fleet. The most powerful of the four subclasses that comprise the Delta Class, the submerged displacement of the Delta IV submarine is 18,200 tons.

The two steam turbines and two pressurized water-cooled reactors power the 166-meter-long, 12.3-meter-beam, 8.8-meter-draught Delta IV submarines. These submarines have a submerged speed of 24 knots (28 mph) and are armed with 16 R-29D SLBMs in D-9D launch tubes. Additionally, they have four 533mm and two 400mm torpedo tubes, further enhancing their offensive capabilities.

Jin Class, People’s Liberation Army Navy (China)

The Jin Class submarines represent China’s strategic nuclear submarine force and showcase the country’s growing naval power. These submarines measure approximately 138 meters in length and have a submerged displacement of 11,000 tons.

Armed with advanced missile systems, the Jin Class submarines bolster China’s maritime nuclear deterrent capability. While specific details about their armament are not publicly disclosed, these submarines are a key component of China’s modern submarine fleet and serve as a symbol of the country’s rising influence on the global stage.

Yasen/Graney Class, Russian Navy

The Yasen/Graney Class submarines, also known as Project 885, are a series of new-generation nuclear-powered submarines being built for the Russian Navy. The lead submarine in the class, Severodvinsk, entered service in 2013, and six more submarines are currently under development.

Underwater displacement for Yasen/Graney Class submarines is 13,800 tons, and their dimensions are 139 meters in length and 15 meters in beam. They feature a single hull made of low magnetic steel, reducing their magnetic signature. These submarines are armed with advanced missile systems and are an integral part of Russia’s naval capabilities.

Akula Class, Russian Navy

The Akula Class submarines, operated by both the Russian Navy and the Indian Navy, are nuclear-powered attack submarines. Submerged with a displacement of 13,800 tons, the Akula Class submarines command the underwater area with an air of menacing presence.

Measuring 110 meters in length, with a beam of 13.6 meters and a draught of 9.7 meters, the Akula Class submarines are known for their advanced technology and offensive capabilities. Equipped with torpedo tubes, they are capable of transporting nuclear warheads and as many as twelve submarine-launched cruise missiles. With a submerged top speed of 35 knots (40 mph), the Akula Class submarines are a force to be reckoned with.

Triomphant Class, French Navy

The Triomphant Class submarines, operated by the French Navy, serve as a vital element of France’s nuclear deterrent strike force. These submarines, including Le Triomphant, Le Téméraire, Le Vigilant, and Le Terrible, are armed with ballistic missiles and advanced weaponry.

Measuring 138 meters in length, with a crew of 111 and a submerged displacement of 14,335 tons, the Triomphant Class submarines showcase France’s commitment to maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent. These submarines carry multiple missiles with thermonuclear warheads, as well as anti-ship missiles and torpedoes. With an endurance of over 60 days underwater and a submerged top speed of over 25 knots (29 mph), the Triomphant Class submarines are a formidable presence in the world’s oceans.

The world’s top 10 biggest submarines represent the pinnacle of submarine technology and engineering. From the immense size of the Typhoon Class to the strategic importance of the Ohio Class, these submarines showcase the advancements made in underwater warfare. These underwater behemoths will continue to shape the power dynamic for the foreseeable future as countries pour resources into their submarine fleets.