Employment of Fast Attack Submarines by the Operational Commander.

Abstract

Abstract : For operational commanders, the use of military force today requires flexibility, efficiency, and careful risk management among joint forces. In light of these requirements, this paper examines the influence of the fast attack nuclear submarine (SSN) and the Joint Force Commander's (JFC) employment of SSNs as an operational-level asset. The history of submarine warfare provides many lessons regarding submarine employment. Although the JFC can use submarines to accomplish or support a broad scope of missions, optimum employment requires analysis of the characteristics, capabilities, and expertise of submarines. The intrinsic and enduring characteristics of the SSN are stealth, mobility, endurance, and flexibility. The SSN also possesses diverse capabilities that allow it to perform a number of missions in support of the operational commander. These include theater ISR, support of ground components and operations ashore, and attacks on sea-based threats and objectives. Matching the submarine's characteristics with these capabilities yields several employment principles. For the JFC, SSNs are flexible assets that are best employed operationally deep where autonomous, survivable, or enabling forces are required. As an operational asset, the SSN contributes directly to several of the JFC's operational functions. First, submarines are important to the JFC because of their role in operational intelligence. Because of their stealth and forward positions, SSNs are able to conduct ISR directed at the enemy's operational weaknesses and centers of gravity. Second, the SSN's mobility and endurance enable it to execute operational maneuver. Third, through their USW, SUW and MIW capabilities, SSNs provide superb operational protection of naval forces. Finally, the SSN's extensive operational reach and autonomy make it particularly effective at conducting operational fires. Effective employment of SSNs will help the JFC achieve leverage and freedom of action in the theater.