Program Executive Office

Enhanced Design

The COLUMBIA class ships will perform the same mission of today’s OHIO Class but with two fewer ships.  They are designed to have a longer service life, better operational availability, and better survivability than their predecessors providing a 21st century capability at a responsible cost.  COLUMBIA design maximizes commonality with OHIO and VIRGINIA Class allowing versatility in training, homeporting, logistics.

Each of the 12 COLUMBIA Class submarines the Navy plans to buy will be 560 feet long, 43 feet in diameter and will be expected to operate in defense of the country and her allies for 42 years. They are a critical, stabilizing, and efficient element of our nation’s nuclear deterrence and reassurance.

Columbia Class Submarine Specifications

• Number in class: At least 12

• Length: 560 feet

• Diameter: 43 feet

• Service Life: 42 years

• Number of Missile Tubes: 16

• Weapon System: Trident II D5 Life Extension Fleet Ballistic Missile

• Submerged Displacement: 20,800 long tons

• Propulsion Plant:  Electric Drive, Life of Ship Reactor Core

• Lead Design Shipbuilder: General Dynamics – Electric Boat

• Crew: Two mixed gender crews of 15 officers, 20 Chief Petty Officers and 120 enlisted.

Join the Team

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