Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:30:53-2:31:55

Choosing SSNs, AIP submarines, and XLUUVs by theater

Confined seas favor AIP boats and large uncrewed vehicles, while oceanic and Arctic missions favor nuclear attack submarines.

Air Independent PropulsionAnti-Submarine WarfareNuclear Powered SubmarinesSubmarine Force StructureXLUUV
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Question

How should a navy compare SSNs, AIP SSKs, and XLUUVs for anti-submarine warfare?

Short answer

Choose by operating area: AIP boats and XLUUVs fit confined waters, while SSNs fit long-range Atlantic, Arctic, and Pacific missions.

Notes

Geography and mission determine the choice. The Baltic and Mediterranean can suit air-independent conventional submarines or extra-large uncrewed vehicles, whereas the North Atlantic, high Arctic, and Pacific reward an SSN's speed and endurance. Navies operating both SSNs and XLUUVs may decide that a third AIP fleet is unnecessary.