Deterrence

Submarines play a critical role in deterrence of both nuclear and coventional conflicts.  U.S. ballistic missle submarines (SSBNs) continue to deter any adversary from conducting a nuclear attack against the United States and its allies.  This is our highest defense priority.

Attack submarines (SSNs) also contribute directly to nuclear deterrence by their ability to hold adversary missile submarines at risk.

While fulfilling other roles, attack submarines contribute to convential deterrence.  Submarines are a ubiquitous threat, and any potential adversary must be concerned that U.S. submarines can deny use of the seas and conduct precision strikes ashore.  The stealth of the submarine allows them freedom of movement to go wherever deterrence is required and to apply direct pressure where needed.

Ballistic Missile Submarines

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Providing 54 percent of the nation's strategic warheads on a day-to-day basis, the Navy's SSBN fleet requires only three percent of the Navy's budget and little more than once percent of the Navy's personnel.  For the United States, this is a bargin price for the most secure and creditable part of all America's deterrent forces.

The Ohio-class SSBNs are a creditable deterrent force.