Ohio-class SSBN

The Ohio-class is the backbone of the U.S. sea-based nuclear deterrent. Each submarine carries 20 Trident II D5 SLBMs with multiple independently targetable warheads. 14 boats serve as SSBNs (ballistic missile submarines); 4 were converted to SSGNs carrying conventional cruise missiles.

Fourteen SSBNs operate under continuous at-sea deterrence, ensuring assured second-strike capability. Each carries up to 20 Trident II D5LE missiles, each capable of carrying 8 W88/W76 warheads. Will be replaced by the Columbia class starting 2031.