The US Navy’s USS Nevada (SSBN 733) and USS Henry M. Jackson (SSBN 730) ballistic missile submarines have demonstrated their ability to remain on mission while replenishing at sea.
Held off the coast of California, the exercise highlighted the interoperability of US military platforms to ensure readiness to deter current and future threats.
As part of the exercise, the US Navy restocked the submarines with materials, food, and operational gear needed to stay longer at sea.
“This allows us to maintain an unpredictable forward presence and continued demonstration of the unmatched strength of our strategic forces,” the service’s maritime operations director Capt. Kelly L. Laing said.
The USS Nevada and USS Henry M. Jackson operated jointly with the US Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, US Marine CMV-22 Ospreys, and US Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft.
Message to Allies, Adversaries
The US Navy has been investing increased time, effort, and money in extending the operational range of its high-performance submarines.
Earlier this year, another Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Alabama (SSBN 731) participated in an at-sea crew exchange.
The exercise demonstrated the submarine’s ability to operate continuously and stay on mission for extended periods of time while sustaining its crews.
“What this shows to our allies and adversaries is that we have the ability to keep our boats at sea,” Laing stressed. “This shows them that we are ready.”
