Q&A: Smoking aboard Cold War submarines

Did sailors smoke inside submarines during Triton's era?

Yes. Continued smoking after the study is interpreted as evidence that the Navy gave substantial weight to its psychological role despite the health benefits of prohibition.

Sailors smoked inside submarines during this period. Continued smoking after Triton's study is interpreted as a sign that the Navy judged its psychological benefits greater than the health benefits of prohibition. For an established smoker, the habit could form part of stress control during a long deployment. It could also help the smoker switch off when off duty.