Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines

The first nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine in history. Departed on the first deterrent patrol November 15, 1960, carrying 16 Polaris A-1 missiles. Built by inserting a 130-foot missile section into a Skipjack-class attack boat hull - a crash program that gave America its sea-based nuclear deterrent before the Soviets could match it. Reclassified SSN-598 in 1981 after SALT II missile removal.

Second boat of the class, named for the Virginia patriot who declared 'Give me liberty, or give me death!' Conducted deterrent patrols from Holy Loch, Scotland, and Charleston through the 1960s and 70s. Reclassified as an attack submarine after missile removal.

Pacific Fleet boomer that patrolled from Pearl Harbor. Missiles removed by end of 1979 under SALT II limitations to make room for incoming Ohio-class boats. Missile compartment completely removed and she briefly served as an attack submarine before decommissioning in 1981.

Built by Newport News without any components from the cancelled Skipjack program - a true purpose-built SSBN hull. Conducted Pacific deterrent patrols from Pearl Harbor. On October 26, 1962, famously made the first Polaris A-2 missile launch from a submerged submarine.

Last of the five George Washington boats. Like Theodore Roosevelt, had her missiles removed under SALT II and her missile compartment cut out. Briefly served as an attack submarine designated SSN-602 before decommissioning. Built at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.