A series of momentous events has certainly changed our world since the last issue of UNDERSEA WARFARE appeared. Each of us has been affected in some way by the attacks on the United States on 11 September, whether by narrowly escaping from the Pentagon or the World Trade Center, surging into deployment, losing friends or relatives, or simply gathering lasting impressions on the news. I want to lead off by recognizing the Submarine Force heroes of 9-11. First, among those lost that day in the Pentagon were three members of the fraternity of submariners: LCDR Patrick Murphy, LCDR Ron Vauk, and ET2(SS) Brian Moss. Never forget these men, their families, and the sacrifice they made. Second, I salute the submarines and crews that have been deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. They are carrying the fight to our enemies in defense of the nation and its freedoms. Third, I deeply appreciate the backing of our service families and that of all the support and volunteer organizations who benefit the Navy. The firm foundation they provide is an indispensable part of the war against terrorism.

Well before that new “day of infamy,” the important documents that marked the point of departure for the transformation of the armed forces were signed out by the Secretary of Defense. Little did anyone suspect that a major world event would occur shortly afterward to create a “forcing function,” setting the United States military on a new course. The first step in this endeavor, or any transformation effort, is to change our basic modes of thinking – and in this case, we’re changing from “threat-based” to “capabilities-based” requirements. Instead of looking to counter specific threats or nations with specific systems, we will develop the sure means to counter generic threat capabilities, regardless of who possesses them.

For example, many countries either have, or are developing, the capability to operate their diesel submarines submerged for extended periods using Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems. This is a new threat we need to counter. The problem is a challenging one, and a key to solving it is to first understand how AIP works and what its limitations are. In this issue of UNDERSEA WARFARE, you will have the opportunity to learn about the various AIP propulsion alternatives and their history.

All nuclear submarines have stealth and endurance, but not all have a large payload-carrying capability. Consider that each D-5 TRIDENT II missile on an Ohio-class SSBN weighs roughly the same as an M-1 tank. Now, while I wouldn’t suggest we figure out how to get a tank into, or out of, a round missile tube, that characterization is particularly striking and suggests a vast array of possibilities for payloads that could be covertly transported well inside a hostile country’s coastal defenses. In this issue of UNDERSEA WARFARE you can get up to date on the SSGN program and review what its transformational capabilities can do for our country.

This search for undersea payload is not a new one. Since submarines first appeared, many countries have worked to give their boats greater payload, primarily for expeditionary warfare roles. In this issue, Norman Polmar’s look at the Soviet Navy’s attempts to develop cargo- and troop-carrying submarines for amphibious operations illuminates an interesting aspect of submarine history. As you read though his article, you can learn about the evolving rationale that went into the development of these early behemoth designs.

Our own submarines, operating submerged and undetected, enjoy freedom from many of the force protection concerns that others face. However, once submarines surface and head for port, our force protection requirements obviously increase. CAPT J.D. Miller, the force protection expert on my staff, has taken on this subject with the goal of explaining the best current thinking on how to solve the force protection problem and what your role is in that solution. In light of recent events, this topic is especially poignant and worth a careful read by seamen, admirals, and everyone in between.

It has been said that you fight like you train, so if you want to better your fight, you must better your training. By making full use of the latest available technology, Submarine School has made quantum leaps in the quality of their classroom and hands-on training, as well as in their support of the fleet worldwide. In the timely article written by SUBSCOL Commanding Officer CAPT Bill Hanson, you’ll see how much his staff is doing to maintain our position as the most capable and ready submarine force in the world.

Consider, however, that it is not just strong training programs or powerful ships that make the U.S. Submarine Force great, but it’s the dedicated men and women – the best Sailors in the world – that put us on top. I am proud of your enthusiasm and commitment – thank you all.

RADM Paul F. Sullivan,USN 
Director, Submarine Warfare

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