The Fate of Retired Submarines in the US Navy: Decommissioning and Disposal

Many might mistakenly believe that once submarines are taken out of service, they are quietly retired to the bottom of the ocean or simply dismantled. However, the process of decommissioning and disposing of these sophisticated military vessels is far more intricate and meticulous.

Our nuclear submarines, a cornerstone of the US Navy's strategic capabilities, undergo a rigorous process that ensures their safe disposal and the protection of sensitive information. This process is overseen by strict protocols to minimize the risk of intelligence leakage and to protect the environment.

Decommissioning: The Journey Begins

Upon decommissioning, a submarine is moved to a separate area, away from active submarines. This area is designated to maintain confidentiality and to prevent unauthorized access until the next phase of decommissioning can take place. Once decommissioning is approved, the nuclear power plant is shut down and the vessel becomes the property of the Department of Energy. The reactor is defueled and the submarine is decommissioned.

The Inactivation Process

The inactivation process involves several detailed steps:

Defueling the Reactor: The submarine's reactor is carefully defueled to ensure that no radioactive material is left on the vessel. This is a crucial step to prevent any potential environmental hazards. Decommissioning: Once the reactor is no longer operational, the submarine is fully decommissioned, marking the end of its service life. Mooring: The decommissioned submarine is moored at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Mooring A for an extended period. This location is chosen due to its controlled and secure environment.

Disposal and Recycling

After the inactivation process, the submarine is prepared for recycling. The hull is carefully dismantled, with a thorough inspection to ensure that there is no contamination. Once it is deemed safe, the vessel is sent to scrap disposal sites. This process is carried out with precision to prevent any illegal or unauthorized removal of parts.

However, there are exceptions to the rule. In some cases, parts of the submarine may be petitioned for display in museums or public parks. For example, vertical rudders from scrapped submarines have been repurposed as historical exhibits. These risers, while no longer functional, serve as poignant reminders of the past and the dedication of the men and women who served in the US Navy.

Conclusion: A Meticulous Process

The process of decommissioning and disposing of retired submarines is a complex and tightly controlled operation. It ensures that these powerful vessels are safely retired and that sensitive information and potential hazards are minimized. The US Navy's commitment to thorough decommissioning protocols is a testament to their dedication to national security and environmental stewardship.

From the meticulous inactivation process to the safe dismantling of the vessel and the potential repurposing of parts for display, the fate of retired submarines in the US Navy is a story of respect, commemoration, and responsible stewardship.