Sturgeon-class (SSN-637)
Summary
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Submarine |
| Subtype | Nuclear attack submarine |
| Manufacturer | General Dynamics Electric Boat, General Dynamics Quincy, Ingalls Shipbuilding, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, New York Shipbuilding, Newport News Shipbuilding, Mare Island Naval Shipyard |
| Year commissioned | 1967 |
| Units | SSN-637 STURGEON, SSN-638 WHALE, SSN-639 TAUTOG, SSN-646 GRAYLING, SSN-647 POGY, SSN-648 ASPRO, SSN-649 SUNFISH, SSN-650 PARGO, SSN-651 QUEENFISH, SSN-652 PUFFER, SSN-653 RAY, SSN-660 SAND LANCE, SSN-661 LAPON, SSN-662 GURNARD, SSN-663 HAMMERHEAD, SSN-664 SEA DEVIL, SSN-665 GUITARRO, SSN-666 HAWKBILL, SSN-667 BERGALL, SSN-668 SPADEFISH, SSN-669 SEAHORSE, SSN-670 FINBACK, SSN-672 PINTADO, SSN-673 FLYING FISH, SSN-674 TREPANG, SSN-675 BLUEFISH, SSN-676 BILLFISH, SSN-677 DRUM, SSN-678 ARCHERFISH, SSN-679 SILVERSIDES, SSN-680 WILLIAM H. BATES, SSN-681 BATFISH, SSN-682 TUNNY, SSN-683 PARCHE, SSN-684 CAVALLA, SSN-686 L. MENDEL RIVERS, SSN-687 RICHARD B. RUSSELL |
Description
The Submarine SSN-637 Sturgeon class is a group of nuclear-powered fast attack submarines that were in service with the United States Navy from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. This class of submarines was designed and built to replace the aging Skipjack and Permit classes and played a crucial role during the Cold War.
Featuring a length of approximately 89 meters (292 feet) and a displacement of around 4,800 tons, the Sturgeon class submarines were equipped with a variety of advanced technologies and capabilities. Powered by a S5W pressurized-water nuclear reactor, these submarines were capable of sustained high-speed operations and extended dive times. They also boasted vertical launch systems, which allowed for the deployment of various types of missiles, and were equipped with four 21-inch torpedo tubes for launching conventional torpedoes.
The Sturgeon class submarines were equipped with advanced sonar systems for detecting and tracking enemy submarines and ships. Their ability to remain undetected and conduct covert operations made them an integral part of the Navy's overall strategy during the Cold War. These submarines were also equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems, providing them with the ability to disrupt enemy communications and defenses.
In terms of crew accommodations, the Sturgeon class submarines had separate living quarters for officers and enlisted personnel, ensuring a comfortable environment for extended deployments. Additionally, these submarines were equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems to support their missions.
Throughout their service, the Sturgeon class submarines underwent various upgrades and modifications to enhance their capabilities. Over the years, they were involved in numerous operations and played a significant role in conducting intelligence gathering, surveillance, and anti-submarine warfare missions.
As newer submarine classes were introduced, the Sturgeon class gradually phased out of service, with the last submarine being decommissioned in 2004. The legacy of the Sturgeon class submarines continues to influence submarine warfare today, as their design and technologies have paved the way for future generations of submarines.
Technical specifications
| Sturgeon | |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3640 tons |
| Displacement submerged | 4640 tons |
| Range | Unlimited, except by food supplies |
| Crew | 107 members |
| Width | 9.65 m (31.7 ft) |
| Length | 89.08 m (292.3 ft) |
| Max. depth | 400 m (1312.3 ft) |
| Propulsion | 1 S 5W reactor with a power of 28,000 hp - 1 propeller |
| Armament | 4 533mm TLTs with 15 torpedoes in storage + 4 UGM-84 Harpoon |
| Maximum speed | 15 knots |
| Max. speed submerged | 30 knots |
Photo of Sturgeon class
Silhouette
