On October 31, 2024, US Naval Forces Europe and Africa posted crucial information on social media: theUSS Tennessee (SSBN-734)an Ohio-class nuclear ballistic missile submarine, was operating on the surface in the Norwegian Sea. This revelation, extremely rare for a building of this type, immediately attracted the attention of international observers.
The submarine was accompanied by the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy and P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. Even more surprising, a E-6B Mercurya strategic command plane nicknamed “doomsday plane”, was flying over the area. This combined presence of naval and air forces demonstrates the importance of this operation.
This maneuver recalls the recent contracts signed by Naval Group for the construction of four submarines for the Netherlands, thus strengthening the submarine capabilities of NATO allies in Europe.
The “Silent Service” emerges from the shadows
The Ohio-class submarines, nicknamed “boomers,” are considered the backbone of America’s nuclear deterrent. Their primary mission is to quietly patrol the ocean depths, ready to launch ballistic missiles in the event of a major conflict. This is why their location is generally kept secret.
The US Navy has:
- 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines
- 4 Ohio-class submarines modified for launching cruise missiles
The decision to reveal the position of the USS Tennessee is therefore highly symbolic. It is part of a communication strategy initiated since 2020, aiming to remind potential adversaries of the destructive power of these nuclear submarines.
A response to Russian movements
This American show of force comes in a context of increased tensions with Russia. Indeed, at the beginning of June, the Russian navy deployed the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and the nuclear submarine Kazan in the Caribbean. These ships even made a rare stopover in Havana, Cuba.
In addition, the guided-missile cruiser Varyag, flagship of the Russian Pacific Fleet, was conducting exercises in the Mediterranean after a visit to the Libyan port of Tobruk. These Russian strategic moves have not escaped Washington's attention.
It is essential to note that even the French navy is not immune to incidents, as evidenced by the emergency return of the nuclear submarine Tourville to Cherbourg, highlighting the technical challenges facing submarine forces. modern.
Geopolitical and military implications
The revelation of the position of the American submarine Ohio sends a clear message to Russia : The United States is ready to show its strength and respond to provocations. This deterrence strategy aims to maintain the balance of power on the international scene.
Here is a comparative table of the capabilities of American and Russian nuclear submarines:
| Features | Sous-marin Ohio (USA) | Borei submarine (Russia) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 170 meters | 170 meters |
| Ballistic missiles | 24 Trident II | 16 Boulava |
| Autonomy | more than 90 days | 100 days |
This escalation of tensions recalls the strategic importance of naval forces in the global geopolitical game. While the United States highlights its nuclear submarines, Russia is not left out with its aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, whose reputation raises questions.
Ultimately, this audacious maneuver by the US Navy marks a turning point in military communications strategy. It underlines the growing importance of visible deterrence in a world where tensions between great powers continue to intensify.
