Technology

The Top 10 Biggest Submarines of the World

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1. Typhoon Class Russia/ Project 941 Akula Class

Typhoon Class Russia/ Project 941 Akula Class
The Typhoon Class submarines were built by Soviet Russia in the 1960s and 70s during the height of the cold war. These nuclear giants were designed to face off against the US and its allies. Enormous in size, the Typhoon class submarines measured an impressive 566 feet in length, 76 meters in breadth, and reached a height of 38 meters, with a displacement of over 48,000 tonnes. The submarines were fitted with 20 R-39 ‘Rif’ intercontinental ballistic missiles (SS-N-20 Sturgeon), each measuring 53 feet long and 8 feet wide. In addition to this formidable arsenal, they were equipped with RSM-52 missiles and a sophisticated magneto hydrostatic drive system for silent yet powerful attacks.

2. Borei-Class Russia/ Project 955 Borei

Borei-Class Russia/ Project 955 Borei

The Borei-Class submarines represent the fourth-generation submarines constructed by Russia after the end of the Soviet regime. Meant to replace older Delta III, IV, and Typhoon class submarines, the Borei-Class submarines have a displacement of 24,000 tonnes and a crew capacity of 107 members. They are 170 meters long and 13 meters wide, with a submerged speed of 25 knots. These submarines are powered by an advanced nuclear reactor, an AEU steam turbine, and use pump-jet propulsion technology. They can carry 16 Bulava-SLBM missiles and 6 SS-N-15 missiles.

3. Ohio-Class, United States

Ohio-Class, United States

The Ohio-Class submarines are the third-largest in the world and were commissioned for the US Navy between 1977 and 1998. Each Ohio-Class submarine is equipped with 24 Trident II missiles, with a range of about 12,000 kilometers, giving them a greater missile-carrying capacity than their Russian counterparts. These submarines have a displacement of 18,750 tonnes, accommodate 90 crew members, and are powered by a pressure water reactor and two turbines. The Ohio-Class submarines are set to be replaced by the newly developed Columbia class submarines by the end of this decade.

4. Delta Class, Russia

Delta Class, Russia

The Delta Class comprises a series of ballistic missile submarines that played a crucial role in the Russian submarine fleet during the 1970s. The class consisted of four sub-classes, namely Delta I, II, III, and IV. The Delta I submarines carried 12 missiles and patrolled the Norwegian and Barents Seas. The later Delta II and Delta III submarines were improved versions with more missiles and enhanced capabilities. The Delta IV submarines, built between 1981 and 1993, are still operational and part of the Russian Northern Fleet.

5. Oscar Class Russia/ Project 949 A Antey

Oscar Class Russia/ Project 949 A Antey

 The Oscar Class, also known as Project 949 A Antey, belongs to the class of cruise missile submarines and is part of the Russian Northern Fleet. These submarines were built during the Cold War and underwent modernization to extend their lifespan. They are equipped with 24 SS-N-19 missiles, have a displacement of 24,000 tonnes, and a cruising speed of about 30 knots. The Oscar Class submarines have a unique design with a double hull and a secret emergency escape capsule capable of accommodating 100 people.

6. Vanguard Class, UK 

Vanguard Class, UK
The Vanguard Class contains four ballistic missile submarines built for the British Navy as part of the Trident nuclear program. These submarines, with a displacement of over 16,000 tonnes, can carry 192 warheads and contain 16 missile tubes with Trident II D5 nuclear missiles having a range of 5,000 miles. The Vanguard Class submarines are set to be replaced by the Dreadnought class by the 2030s.

7. Yasen/Graney Class, Russia 

Yasen/Graney Class, Russia
The Yasen Class, also known as the Graney Class, is a new class of cruise missile submarines designed by Russia. They are armed with cruise missiles for launching land attacks and can carry 32 cruise missiles in ten launch pads. These submarines have a displacement of 14,000 tonnes, are 140 meters long, and have a single hull made of steel and advanced automation systems.

8. Triomphant Class, France 

Triomphant Class, France
The Triomphant Class submarines were built for the French Navy and are part of the country’s nuclear program. These submarines are 138 meters long, have a displacement of 14,335 tonnes, and are equipped with 16 M45 ballistic missiles. They are set to be replaced by the third generation of high-tech submarines by 2035.

9. Sierra Class, Russia 

Sierra Class, Russia
The Sierra Class consists of four attack submarines built under Project 945 Barrakuda and Project 945 A Kondor. These submarines are known for their lightweight titanium hull, which allows them to reach a maximum speed of 35 knots. Sierra Class submarines have a displacement of 10,500 tonnes and are equipped with various torpedo and missile systems.

10. Akula Class, Russia

Akula Class, Russia
The Akula Class consists of ten attack submarines launched by Russia in 1986. They are known for their stealth capabilities and are quieter than other Soviet submarines. The Akula submarines have a displacement of 13,700 tonnes and are 110 meters long. One of these submarines, INS Chakra, was leased to India in 2012.

In conclusion, submarines have come a long way since their early days, and the top 10 biggest submarines in the world showcase the remarkable technological advancements achieved in naval warfare. These underwater giants play a critical role in maintaining peace and security in the modern world and will continue to be an essential part of any country’s naval fleet for years to come.

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