Intro
Discover the massive Ohio submarine size, exploring its enormous length, beam, and draft, with 5 fascinating facts about its huge dimensions, underwater capabilities, and naval architecture.
The Ohio-class submarines are a class of nuclear-powered submarines used by the United States Navy for ballistic missile deterrence. These submarines are among the largest in the world and play a critical role in the US nuclear triad. Here are five key facts about the size of Ohio-class submarines:
The Ohio-class submarines are enormous, with a length of 560 feet (170.7 meters) and a beam of 42 feet (12.8 meters). This massive size is necessary to accommodate the 24 ballistic missile tubes, as well as the crew and equipment needed to operate the submarine. The size of the Ohio-class submarines also allows them to remain at sea for extended periods, making them a reliable and effective deterrent.
The displacement of an Ohio-class submarine is approximately 19,000 tons, which is roughly the same as a small aircraft carrier. This massive displacement is due to the weight of the submarine's hull, as well as the nuclear reactor and propulsion system. The size and displacement of the Ohio-class submarines make them one of the largest submarines in the world, and their massive size is a key factor in their ability to remain undetected and launch ballistic missiles.
The Ohio-class submarines have a draft of about 35 feet (10.7 meters), which allows them to operate in a variety of environments, from the open ocean to coastal waters. The size and draft of the Ohio-class submarines also make them highly stable, which is essential for launching ballistic missiles. The stability of the submarine is critical, as it must be able to maintain a steady platform for launching missiles, even in rough seas.
The crew of an Ohio-class submarine is relatively small, with about 155 personnel on board. Despite the small crew, the submarine is equipped with a wide range of amenities, including a gym, a library, and a mess hall. The size of the submarine allows for a high degree of comfort and amenities, which is essential for the crew's well-being during extended deployments.
The Ohio-class submarines are powered by a single nuclear reactor, which provides enough energy to power a small city. The size of the reactor and the propulsion system is massive, and it requires a significant amount of space and resources to operate. The nuclear reactor is a key factor in the size of the Ohio-class submarines, and it provides the power needed to operate the submarine's systems and propel it through the water.
Introduction to Ohio-Class Submarines

Design and Construction
The Ohio-class submarines were designed and constructed by General Dynamics Electric Boat, with the first submarine, USS Ohio (SSBN-726), being commissioned in 1981. The submarines were designed to replace the older Benjamin Franklin-class and James Madison-class submarines, and they have since become the backbone of the US ballistic missile submarine fleet.The Ohio-class submarines are designed to be highly stealthy, with a sleek hull and a propulsion system that minimizes noise. The submarines are also equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, which allow them to remain in contact with command authorities and detect potential threats.
Size and Displacement

The displacement of an Ohio-class submarine is approximately 19,000 tons, which is roughly the same as a small aircraft carrier. This massive displacement is due to the weight of the submarine's hull, as well as the nuclear reactor and propulsion system.
Crew and Amenities
The crew of an Ohio-class submarine is relatively small, with about 155 personnel on board. Despite the small crew, the submarine is equipped with a wide range of amenities, including a gym, a library, and a mess hall. The size of the submarine allows for a high degree of comfort and amenities, which is essential for the crew's well-being during extended deployments.The crew of an Ohio-class submarine is highly trained and specialized, with each member having a critical role to play in the operation of the submarine. The crew is responsible for maintaining the submarine's systems, operating the ballistic missiles, and navigating the submarine through the ocean.
Ballistic Missile Capability

The ballistic missile capability of the Ohio-class submarines is a critical factor in the US nuclear deterrent. The submarines are designed to remain at sea for extended periods, providing a continuous deterrent presence in the ocean.
Stealth and Survivability
The Ohio-class submarines are designed to be highly stealthy, with a sleek hull and a propulsion system that minimizes noise. The submarines are also equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, which allow them to remain in contact with command authorities and detect potential threats.The survivability of the Ohio-class submarines is critical, as they are designed to operate in a hostile environment. The submarines are equipped with a range of defensive systems, including torpedo tubes and countermeasures, which are designed to protect the submarine from attack.
Operational History

The Ohio-class submarines have undergone several upgrades and modernizations over the years, including the installation of new ballistic missiles and advanced sensors. The submarines have also been involved in several high-profile operations, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan.
Future Developments
The Ohio-class submarines are expected to remain in service for several decades, with the US Navy planning to replace them with a new class of submarines, known as the Columbia-class. The Columbia-class submarines are currently under development and are expected to enter service in the 2030s.The future of the Ohio-class submarines is uncertain, with the US Navy planning to retire the submarines as they reach the end of their service life. However, the submarines are expected to remain an important part of the US nuclear deterrent for several decades to come.
Gallery of Ohio-Class Submarines
Ohio-Class Submarine Image Gallery










What is the length of an Ohio-class submarine?
+The length of an Ohio-class submarine is 560 feet (170.7 meters).
What is the displacement of an Ohio-class submarine?
+The displacement of an Ohio-class submarine is approximately 19,000 tons.
How many ballistic missile tubes does an Ohio-class submarine have?
+An Ohio-class submarine has 24 ballistic missile tubes.
What is the crew size of an Ohio-class submarine?
+The crew size of an Ohio-class submarine is approximately 155 personnel.
What is the expected service life of an Ohio-class submarine?
+The expected service life of an Ohio-class submarine is several decades, with the US Navy planning to replace them with a new class of submarines in the 2030s.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Ohio-class submarines and their size. These submarines are truly massive and play a critical role in the US nuclear deterrent. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the Ohio-class submarines, please don't hesitate to comment below or share this article with your friends and family.