Intro
Delve into the Permit Class Submarine, a pioneering US Navy vessel, in this technical overview. Discover its design evolution, operational capabilities, and key features, including its nuclear reactor, torpedo tubes, and advanced sonar systems. Learn about its service history, notable deployments, and the innovations that made it a cornerstone of the Cold War-era submarine fleet.
The Permit class submarine, also known as the Thresher/Permit class, was a series of nuclear-powered attack submarines built by the United States Navy in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These submarines played a crucial role in the Cold War, providing the US with a powerful underwater deterrent against the Soviet Union. In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects of the Permit class submarine, exploring its design, capabilities, and features.
Background and Development
The Permit class submarine was a direct response to the Soviet Union's rapid development of nuclear-powered submarines. In the mid-1950s, the US Navy realized that its existing conventional submarines were no match for the Soviet's new nuclear-powered boats. To counter this threat, the US Navy began developing its own nuclear-powered attack submarines. The Permit class was the result of this effort, with the first boat, USS Permit (SSN-594), being commissioned in 1962.
Design and Construction
The Permit class submarines were designed to be fast, agile, and heavily armed. They were constructed with a streamlined hull and a distinctive teardrop shape, which provided exceptional maneuverability and reduced drag. The submarines were built with a length of 292 feet (89 meters) and a beam of 29 feet (8.8 meters), displacing approximately 4,000 tons of water.
Propulsion System
The Permit class submarines were powered by a nuclear reactor, which provided the energy needed to propel the submarine through the water. The reactor was a pressurized water reactor (PWR), which used enriched uranium as fuel. The reactor was connected to a steam turbine, which drove a propeller shaft. The propeller shaft was connected to a five-bladed propeller, which provided the propulsion needed to move the submarine.
Armament and Sensors
The Permit class submarines were heavily armed with a variety of torpedoes and missiles. They were equipped with four 21-inch (533mm) torpedo tubes, which could fire Mark 37 torpedoes or Harpoon missiles. The submarines were also equipped with a pair of Mark 45 533mm torpedo tubes, which could fire Mark 45 torpedoes.
In addition to their armament, the Permit class submarines were equipped with advanced sensors and electronics. They were fitted with a BQQ-2 sonar system, which provided the submarine with exceptional underwater detection capabilities. The submarines were also equipped with a SINS (Ship's Inertial Navigation System), which provided accurate navigation and positioning.
Performance and Capabilities
The Permit class submarines were highly capable boats, with exceptional speed and maneuverability. They had a top speed of over 20 knots (37 km/h) and a diving depth of over 700 feet (213 meters). The submarines were also highly stealthy, with a low acoustic signature that made them difficult to detect.
Operational History
The Permit class submarines played a significant role in the Cold War, conducting numerous patrols and operations against the Soviet Union. They were also used in various exercises and training operations, where they demonstrated their exceptional capabilities.
Legacy and Retirement
The Permit class submarines were eventually replaced by newer, more advanced submarines, such as the Sturgeon class and the Los Angeles class. The last Permit class submarine, USS Guardfish (SSN-612), was decommissioned in 1992.
Technical Specifications
Here are some technical specifications of the Permit class submarine:
- Length: 292 feet (89 meters)
- Beam: 29 feet (8.8 meters)
- Displacement: 4,000 tons
- Propulsion: Nuclear reactor, steam turbine, and propeller shaft
- Speed: Over 20 knots (37 km/h)
- Diving Depth: Over 700 feet (213 meters)
- Armament: Four 21-inch (533mm) torpedo tubes, two Mark 45 533mm torpedo tubes
- Sensors: BQQ-2 sonar system, SINS (Ship's Inertial Navigation System)
Comparison with Other Submarines
The Permit class submarine was a significant improvement over its predecessors, with its advanced propulsion system and sensors. However, it was eventually surpassed by newer, more advanced submarines, such as the Sturgeon class and the Los Angeles class.
Gallery of Permit Class Submarine
Permit Class Submarine Image Gallery
Conclusion
The Permit class submarine was a significant improvement over its predecessors, with its advanced propulsion system and sensors. Although it was eventually replaced by newer, more advanced submarines, it played a significant role in the Cold War and remains an important part of naval history.
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