US sends ballistic missile submarine for first time amid tensions with North Korea.

According to information published by Yonhap News Agency on July 18, 2023, the Ohio class ballistic missile submarine USS Kentucky from the U.S., docked in South Korea for the first time in over 40 years.
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Ohio class ballistic missile submarine USS Kentucky. (Picture source: US DoD)

In a region often marked by geopolitical tensions, especially with North Korea and China, the deployment of such an advanced submarine is a clear message to potential adversaries about the U.S.'s military capabilities and its readiness to defend its allies. This arrival is the first by a U.S. SSBN in South Korea since the 1980s, further underlining the significance of this event.

Moreover, the timing of the submarine's arrival in South Korea is notable, coinciding with the inaugural meeting of the Nuclear Consultative Group. This new collaborative initiative, agreed upon during the April summit between President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden, aims to increase strategic dialogue and coordination between the two nations on nuclear deterrence matters.

Technical data

The Ohio-class represents the pinnacle of submarine technology. With a displacement of 18,750 tons and measuring 170 meters in length, it's one of the largest SSBNs in the world. Its sheer size enables it to house a vast array of technology and weaponry, including the Trident-II ballistic missiles.

The Trident-II, or Trident D5, is a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), which is a key component of the US's strategic nuclear deterrence capability.

The missile has a range of over 7,500 kilometers and is equipped with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). This means each missile can carry several nuclear warheads, each of which can be directed to different targets. Thus, the capacity of the USS Kentucky to carry over 20 of these missiles provides it with immense strategic value.

Furthermore, the USS Kentucky, like other Ohio-class submarines, operates on nuclear power. The use of nuclear propulsion affords the submarine virtually unlimited range and endurance, only limited by the food supply for the crew.

It can stay submerged for long periods, offering exceptional stealth capabilities, and can travel at high speeds when necessary. This makes it an ideal platform for various strategic operations, including deterrence patrols and surveillance.