Notable events punctuate the Louisiana’s service record, blending routine maintenance with unforeseen challenges.
USS Louisiana (SSBN-743) is one of America’s most important submarines. Living by the motto, “The Best for Last,” this submarine represents the final Ohio-class ballistic submarine built. Specifically, it is the 18th and final Ohio-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile (SSBN) submarine commissioned by the US Navy. It is expected to serve until the 2040s, when the new Columbia-class SSBNs are planned to replace the Ohio-class.
The journey of the USS Louisiana began amid the waning years of the Cold War, as the US Navy sought to bolster its strategic submarine force. The contract for her construction was awarded to the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Conn., on December 19, 1990. Her keel was laid down on October 23, 1992, marking the start of a meticulous building process that incorporated advanced stealth features and nuclear propulsion systems.
Formally launched on July 27, 1996, with Patricia O’Keefe serving as sponsor, the submarine underwent rigorous sea trials before her commissioning ceremony on September 6, 1997, at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia.
The USS Louisiana’s Specifications
As an Ohio-class submarine, the USS Louisiana boasts impressive specifications designed for extended submerged operations and maximum survivability. She displaces 16,764 long tons surfaced and 18,750 long tons when submerged. Propulsion is provided by a single S8G pressurized water reactor, driving two geared turbines and one shaft, delivering speeds greater than 25 knots (30 miles per hour) and a test depth exceeding 800 feet.
Her armament centers on up to 24 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, each capable of carrying multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), alongside four 21-inch torpedo tubes for Mk 48 torpedoes. The vessel operates with alternative “Blue” and “Gold” crews, each comprising 15 officers and 140 enlisted personnel, allowing for near-continuous deployment while one crew rests and trains ashore. This dual-crew system maximizes operational efficiency, with the submarine capable of patrols typically lasting 70 to 90 days.
Operational history for USS Louisiana reflects the broader shifts in US naval strategy post-Cold War. Initially homeported at King’s Bay, she conducted routine strategic deterrent patrols in the Atlantic, contributing to the Navy’s mission of assured second-strike capability. In the early 2000s, as part of a fleet realignment following the conversion of four older Ohio-class boats to guided-missile submarines (SSGNs), Louisiana was one of five SSBNs transferred to the Pacific Fleet.
She arrived at her new homeport, Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor, Wash., on October 12, 2005, bolstering deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region amid rising tensions with potential adversaries like China and North Korea. From there, she has undertaken numerous patrols, like China and North Korea. She has undertaken numerous patrols, though specific details remain classified due to the highly sensitive nature of SSBN operations.
Important Moments in the Louisiana’s Life
Notable events punctuate Louisiana’s service record, blending routine maintenance with unforeseen challenges. In February 2023, she completed an Engineered Refueling Overhaul (ERO) at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility, a major milestone that extended her service life by replacing the nuclear fuel core and upgrading systems. This overhaul, the last for an Ohio-class submarine, ensured her readiness for future deployments.
On August 18, 2016, however, Louisiana collided with the Military Sealift Command vessel USNS Eagleview in the Strait of Juan de Fuca during surface operations. The incident caused minor damage to her forward starboard hull but no injuries, and both ships returned to port under their own power. The Navy investigated the mishap, highlighting the risks of operating in congested waterways—and the dangers that may come from any fight with China, which would undoubtedly include fighting in the tight waterways of the South China Sea. More recently, last summer, her Gold and Blue crews conducted port visits and command exchanges at Naval Base Guam, demonstrating US naval presence in the Indo-Pacific.
In 2006, the Louisiana earned the Omaha Trophy for outstanding performance in the Submarine Ballistic Missile Command category, evaluating factors like weapon readiness, crew morale, safety, and community involvement. Presented by US Strategic Command in May 2007, this accolade underscored her operational prowess. Additionally, in February 2009, both crews received the Meritorious Unit Commendation from the Chief of Naval Operations for superior performance across strategic operations, engineering, and personnel programs—the first such honor for an SSBN since 2001.
Today, Louisiana is part of Submarine Group Nine and Submarine Squadron 17, homeported in Bangor, Wash. She continues to conduct important deterrent patrols. With the Ohio-class fleet gradually transitioning to the new Columbia-class submarines, Louisiana’s role in bridging this generational shift is key as it will ensure unbroken strategic continuity.
America Needs More Submarines Like the Louisiana
Louisiana is one of the most impressive and important submarines in America’s fleet. She will serve for many more decades. Having begun her life at the outset of America’s unipolar moment following the end of the Cold War and collapse of the Soviet Union, today she is key for helping to keep the multipolar world balanced as it teeters on the brink of a major conflict.
In spite of the Louisiana’s retirement plans, there is no guarantee that the Columbia-class submarine will come online as planned—or with the numbers the Navy desires—meaning that the Louisiana may be called upon to serve far longer than the Navy currently plans for her to serve.
The dedication of her crews over the years and the stellar service record of the submarine indicate that this is one exemplary—and special—submarine in America’s far too small submarine force.
About the Author: Brandon J. Weichert
Brandon J. Weichert, a Senior National Security Editor at The National Interest as well as a contributor at Popular Mechanics, who consults regularly with various government institutions and private organizations on geopolitical issues. Weichert’s writings have appeared in multiple publications, including the Washington Times, National Review, The American Spectator, MSN, the Asia Times, and countless others. His books include Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His newest book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine is available for purchase wherever books are sold. He can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.
Image: Wikimedia Commons.
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