A U.S. Navy nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, accompanied by a guided-missile cruiser and two naval aircraft, was observed in the Norwegian Sea this week. This move follows the sighting of a Russian nuclear submarine and three other vessels off the coast of Florida, en route to Cuba. While the U.S. Navy has not provided a specific reason for this deployment, it is widely interpreted as a show of strength.
The U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and the U.S. 6th Fleet announced the presence of the USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) in the Norwegian Sea. The USS Tennessee, a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, was joined by the USS Normandy (CG 60), a guided-missile cruiser, as well as a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and an E-6B Mercury strategic communications plane.
The USS Tennessee is capable of carrying 20 Trident II D5 nuclear missiles, making it a significant element of the U.S. strategic deterrent force. The E-6B Mercury aircraft, known as the “doomsday plane,” is equipped to provide nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) for the U.S. President, Secretary of Defense, and U.S. Strategic Command. This aircraft can relay orders from the National Command Authority to U.S. nuclear forces, ensuring the execution of strategic missions even under the most severe conditions.
The deployment of these powerful assets in the Norwegian Sea is a notable event, reflecting heightened military readiness and strategic signaling. The timing is particularly significant, coming shortly after the Russian naval movements near the U.S. coastline. The presence of the USS Tennessee and its accompanying vessels demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s ability to project power and maintain a robust nuclear deterrent in key strategic locations.
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