Keel Laid for USS Wisconsin (SSBN 827): Stealth Redefined with 16 Trident Missiles

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On August 27, 2025, the keel-laying ceremony for the USS Wisconsin (SSBN 827) was held at the General Dynamics Electric Boat facility in Rhode Island. This event marked a significant milestone in the construction of the second Columbia-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, a vessel poised to play a pivotal role in the future of the United States Navy's strategic deterrence capabilities. The ceremony, steeped in naval tradition, symbolized the formal beginning of the submarine’s assembly and underscored the importance of the Columbia-class program to national security.

Photo: U.S. Navy

The USS Wisconsin is designed to replace the aging Ohio-class submarines, which have served as the backbone of the U.S. sea-based nuclear deterrent since the 1980s. As the second vessel in the Columbia class, it represents a leap forward in submarine technology, survivability, and operational endurance. Its construction is part of a broader modernization effort aimed at ensuring the continued effectiveness of the nuclear triad well into the 21st century.

With a submerged displacement of 20,810 long tons (approximately 21,140 metric tons), the USS Wisconsin is among the largest submarines ever built by the United States. Measuring 560 feet (171 meters) in length and 43 feet (13 meters) in beam, the vessel’s dimensions reflect its formidable presence beneath the waves. These specifications allow for enhanced payload capacity, crew accommodations, and onboard systems integration.

The submarine is powered by the S1B nuclear reactor, a next-generation propulsion system developed specifically for the Columbia class. This reactor provides the vessel with virtually unlimited range and eliminates the need for refueling during its projected 40-year service life. The turbo-electric drive and pump-jet propulsion system offer quieter operation, reducing acoustic signatures and improving stealth capabilities.

The USS Wisconsin will carry a complement of 155 personnel, a number that includes both officers and enlisted sailors. The crew will benefit from improved living conditions, including expanded berthing spaces and modern amenities designed to support long-duration missions. These enhancements reflect lessons learned from previous submarine classes and aim to improve crew morale and operational efficiency.

One of the most notable features of the Columbia-class submarines is their advanced sonar suite, which includes an enlarged version of the Virginia-class Large Aperture Bow (LAB) sonar. This system provides superior detection capabilities, enabling the submarine to identify and track potential threats with greater accuracy. The integration of cutting-edge sensors and processing systems ensures that the USS Wisconsin remains at the forefront of undersea warfare technology.

In terms of armament, the submarine is equipped with 16 Trident II D5 ballistic missile tubes, each capable of delivering multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). These missiles form the core of the vessel’s strategic deterrent mission, providing a credible and survivable second-strike capability. Additionally, the submarine is fitted with torpedo tubes for self-defense and conventional strike operations.

The Columbia-class program is the most expensive and complex shipbuilding initiative ever undertaken by the U.S. Navy. It reflects a long-term commitment to maintaining a robust and reliable sea-based leg of the nuclear triad. The USS Wisconsin, as part of this program, embodies decades of research, development, and strategic planning.

Construction of the submarine involves a collaborative effort between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries, two of the nation’s premier shipbuilders. These companies bring extensive experience and technical expertise to the project, ensuring that each vessel meets rigorous standards for performance and safety. The use of modular construction techniques allows for greater efficiency and quality control throughout the build process.

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