America’s New Silent Sentinel: The Columbia Class Submarine Program The Columbia-class submarine program is the U.S. Navy’s top strategic shipbuilding priority, delivering 12 nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines to replace the Ohio-class fleet. These boats will keep America’s sea-based nuclear deterrent strong well into the mid-21st century. Construction of the lead boat, USS District of Columbia, began in 2020, with delivery expected in 2029, marking a major milestone in modernizing the Navy’s undersea capabilities and enhancing global strategic stability. Large hull sections are built separately and joined at the final yard, letting teams work efficiently while maintaining high quality and safety. Total acquisition costs for all 12 submarines are about 132 billion dollars. The first boat is the most expensive due to design and development, while follow-ons are more cost-efficient thanks to reusable designs, advanced systems, and streamlined production. Each submarine has a life-of-ship nuclear reactor, electric propulsion for quiet, stealthy operation, advanced sonar, navigation, and automation. Each carries sixteen ballistic missile tubes, modern guidance, secure communications, and periscope technology for observing the surface while mostly submerged. Crew quarters are comfortable and designed to support months-long patrols with full operational readiness. Strategically, the Columbia-class fleet maintains continuous at-sea deterrence with fewer hulls than the Ohio class. The U.S. has 14 Ohio-class subs, Russia six Borei-class, and China four Jin-class. By the mid-2030s, all 12 Columbia-class boats will be in service, surpassing current Russian and Chinese fleets. With advanced construction, stealth, endurance, automation, nuclear power, and cutting-edge systems, the Columbia class is a modern, capable, and reliable centerpiece of America’s national security for decades to come. #Navy #USNavy #BreakingNews #America #USA #News #USNews