U.S Officer reveals details of operational strategy
Retired United States Army Officer Frederick Ben Hodges recently disclosed in a conversation with Defense Romania that the U.S. traditionally does not publicize the location and timing of placements for their nuclear submarines. Nevertheless, the military has intentionally signaled the existence of its vessels in the Middle East. This article will further examine the capabilities of the Ohio class unit recently deployed to the Middle Eastern waters.
4:24 PM EST, November 23, 2023
Defense Romania reported that the declaration of American vessels in this area was deliberate. Hodges explained that the U.S. usually keeps information about their submarine locations confidential. However, due to the potential expansion of the current conflict, the military decided to vary from the norm. By doing this, the U.S. has indicated that it is serious.
Simultaneously, it's a cautionary note for groups like Hezbollah, advising against escalating the conflict or prompting war in the Middle East. "We have a formidable fighting force," Hodges stated, highlighting the strength of the U.S. military. He also recognized Hezbollah's involvement in the conflict, noting that their leader, Hassan Nasr Allah, has made threats but, so far, has remained non-active.
U.S Submarine stationed in the Middle East
In November, the U.S. Central Command announced an Ohio-class submarine's presence in their "Area of Responsibility," including the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman.
Although the submarine's exact location wasn't disclosed in a post published on a certain platform, the simple act of announcing its existence and operational plans in a specific region is an unusual move by the U.S.
Ohio class vessels, such as the one deployed in the Middle East, are also known as Trident vessels. These nuclear units are designed to carry Trident II D-5 SLBM ballistic missiles equipped with thermonuclear warheads. Today, 18 Ohio class units make up the core of the strategic nuclear deterrence system, replacing the formerly used Polaris-Poseidon vessels.
Alongside the Trident II D-5 missiles that have an operational range of up to 6,835 miles, there could also be up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles aboard Ohio class vessels, with a maximum reach of 1,553 miles. The propulsion unit of these vessels consists of one GE S8G PWR reactor, two turbines generating a combined power of 80,390 horsepower, supplemented by one Magnetek auxiliary engine providing 434 horsepower.
