Submarine

Submarine

A submarine is a watercraft capable of independent operation underwater. It differs from a submersible, which has more limited underwater capability. Submarines are used for a variety of purposes, including military, scientific, and recreational activities.

The USS Virginia, a modern nuclear-powered submarine.

History

The concept of underwater travel has fascinated humans for centuries. The earliest recorded design for a submarine was by Cornelis Drebbel, a Dutch inventor, in the early 17th century.

Cornelis Drebbel's submarine design.

Early Developments

In the 18th century, the American inventor David Bushnell created the "Turtle," a hand-powered device intended to attach explosives to enemy ships. The first successful military submarine was the CSS Hunley, used during the American Civil War.

19th Century

The 19th century saw significant advancements in submarine technology. Robert Fulton, an American engineer, designed the "Nautilus," which was one of the first practical submarines.

Fulton's submarine design.

The French submarine "Plongeur" was the first to be propelled by mechanical power, using compressed air.

The French submarine Plongeur.

Late 19th to Early 20th Century

In 1888, the Spanish engineer Isaac Peral developed the "Peral Submarine," which was one of the first electric battery-powered submarines.

The Peral Submarine, an early electric-powered submarine.

The USS Plunger (SS-2) was one of the first submarines commissioned by the United States Navy.

The USS Plunger, an early U.S. Navy submarine.

Modern Submarines

Modern submarines are typically powered by nuclear reactors, allowing them to operate underwater for extended periods without surfacing. They are equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems, and many are armed with torpedoes and missiles.

The Russian submarine Vepr, a modern attack submarine.

Types of Submarines

Submarines are classified into several types based on their purpose and capabilities:

• Attack Submarines (SSN): Designed to seek and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships.
• Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN): Equipped with nuclear missiles for strategic deterrence.
• Cruise Missile Submarines (SSGN): Armed with cruise missiles for precision strikes.
• Research Submarines: Used for scientific exploration and research.

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Diagram of U.S. Navy submarine types from the 1940s and 1950s.

Related Pages

• Nuclear submarine
• Submersible
• Torpedo
• Sonar