Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:40:35-4:45:55

Why Los Angeles-class submarines kept propellers

Production urgency and fleet commonality are offered as reasons for retaining Los Angeles propulsion, with Seawolf providing a fresh design for pump-jet integration.

Attack SubmarinesLos Angeles Class SubmarinesNaval ProcurementPump JetsSeawolf Class SubmarinesSubmarine Design
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Question

Why did later Los Angeles-class submarines not receive pump-jet propulsion?

Short answer

Urgent production and fleet commonality are suggested reasons; a pump jet could be integrated more readily into Seawolf's new hull design.

Notes

Rapid replacement of older nuclear submarines favored keeping Los Angeles-class production moving while other technologies were tested. The class was designed around speed, quiet running, endurance, and an integrated towed array. Later flights added vertical-launch capability instead of delaying the first boats to fit everything at once. Fleet-wide training commonality is offered as another reason for caution over pump jets. Hydrodynamic fit is another possible issue, although no firm diagnosis of the Los Angeles hull is offered. Seawolf's new hull design then provided an opportunity to integrate a pump jet from the outset.