American submarine NR-1

NR-1 was a unique United States Navy submarine. Built by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics at Groton, Connecticut, NR-1 was launched on 25 January 1969, completed initial sea trials 19 August 1969, and was home-ported at Naval Submarine Base New London.

Design and capabilities

NR-1 was a small, deep-diving nuclear submarine. Unlike other submarines, NR-1's nuclear propulsion allowed it to remain submerged for very long periods. The submarine was designed to be a research and development platform, testing advanced submarine systems and conducting oceanographic research. It had the capability to perform underwater search and recovery, oceanographic research missions, cable and bottom inspection, and photography.

Operations

Over its operational life, NR-1 was involved in a number of research and exploration missions. In 1976, it was used to explore the wreckage of the Titanic. In 1986, it was used to inspect the wreckage of the Space Shuttle Challenger. The submarine was also used in a number of classified missions, details of which remain secret.

Decommissioning

NR-1 was decommissioned in 2008, after nearly 40 years of service. The submarine's unique capabilities and long service life made it a valuable asset to the United States Navy and the scientific community.

See also

• List of submarines of the United States Navy
• Deep Submergence Vehicle
• Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle

References

• Polmar, Norman, and Moore, K.J. (2004). Cold War Submarines: The Design and Construction of U.S. and Soviet Submarines. Potomac Books. ISBN 1-57488-530-8.
• Sontag, Sherry; Drew, Christopher; and Drew, Annette Lawrence (1998). Blind Man's Bluff: The Untold Story of American Submarine Espionage. PublicAffairs. ISBN 1-891620-08-8.