ETHAN ALLEN class

The Ethan Allen SSBN class, were the first US Navy submarines really designed from the outset to launch ballistic missiles. They were constructed using submarine design SCB-180 and were built with Hy 80 high-strength steel, which allowed them to reach greater depth than any previous submarine. Five submarines comprised this class that entered service between 1961-62, making their first deterrent patrols at the end of 1962. They were armed with sixteen Polaris A-2 missiles, being replaced by the Polaris A-3 in 1965, which would be replaced in mid of the 70’s by the Polaris A-3T. In 1983 these submarines withdrew from service, except 2 units, which were converted into nuclear attack submarines (SSN) especially fitted to carry out Special Operations missions with the US Navy SEALs until 1992, when they were definitively withdrawn.

ETHAN ALLEN class gallery and more info