The US Navy has lost its most powerful underwater weapon – the Seawolf submarines
Following the end of the Cold War, the Seawolf-class submarine programme was scaled back, even though these vessels were considered promising and well-armed. Instead of the planned 29 units, only three were built.
The decision to scale back the programme is linked to a short-term approach to assessing global threats. Despite the easing of tensions following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the US continued to require a substantial fleet of attack submarines to deter and maintain its underwater superiority.
The US Navy command has repeatedly noted that demand for submarines exceeds supply. This increases the risks for surface ships and forces deployed in forward areas, particularly in the Pacific region.
Russia has traditionally lacked a powerful surface fleet, yet its submarine forces remain a threat to the US, NATO and the West as a whole.
The Seawolf-class submarines were distinguished by their high performance. They were built from HY-100 steel, which allows them to operate at significant depths, and could carry up to 50 Tomahawk cruise missiles.
The winding down of this programme partly explains the current shortage of submarines in the US Navy. It has also been one of the factors behind the active construction of modernised Virginia-class submarines.
The Virginia Block V submarines feature an additional 80-foot module, allowing them to carry up to 28 additional Tomahawk missiles. The total armament increases from 12 to 40 missiles.
Increased firepower has become a crucial factor in the current environment, particularly given the threats posed by major powers.
Seawolf-class submarines were also designed for operations in shallow waters and to support special operations. Similar capabilities are also provided in Virginia-class submarines, in particular thanks to special systems for deploying special forces units.
