US: Ohio class submarine deployed underwater drones for classified missions
USS Michigan conducted at least three classified national security missions, along with operations involving special forces in hostile environments.
The United States Navy’s Ohio class guided missile submarine (SSGN) USS Michigan deployed uncrewed underwater vehicles during operations from October 2022 to January 2024, reports reveal. The submarine and its crew conducted at least three classified national security missions, along with operations involving special forces in hostile and challenging environments.
Details of Michigan’s 2022-2024 operations are outlined in a Navy Unit Commendation (NUC) awarded to the submarine in December. Michigan is one of four Ohio SSGNs converted from Ohio class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).
SSGNs excel in covert operations
The NUC highlighted Michigan’s activities from 2022 to 2024. According to the Commendation, personnel of Michigan demonstrated exceptional operational planning, risk management, and precise tactical execution. Operating in hostile and challenging environments, they successfully completed three critical missions vital to national security, along with several special warfare operations.
“Their achievements contributed to multiple high priority national and theater objectives and significantly enhanced warfighting readiness in the Western Pacific,” the NUC read.
Moreover, Michigan’s performance significantly advanced emerging capabilities in naval special warfare and undersea operations, including the development of concepts of operations, tactics, techniques, and procedures for employing unmanned undersea vehicles.
SSGNs are highly versatile and in-demand platforms, capable of executing a wide range of missions. These include covert intelligence gathering, clandestine special operations, and launching large volleys of Tomahawk cruise missiles, The War Zone reported.