“They Built It to Hunt and Kill Us”: Chinese Navy Fears the Ruthless Precision of America’s New Virginia Block V Submarine

The Virginia Block V attack submarine is poised to revolutionize undersea warfare with its impressive capabilities and cutting-edge technology. As the largest shipbuilding contract in U.S. Navy history, this initiative represents a significant investment in national defense. With a contract exceeding $22 billion, General Dynamics Electric Boat, the lead contractor, is tasked with delivering this advanced submarine. The Block V is designed to be a true multimission vessel, boasting strike capabilities and the ability to deploy large-diameter unmanned underwater vehicles, alongside traditional surveillance missions. This article delves into the key aspects that make the Virginia Block V a game-changer in naval defense.

Enlarged Hull and Increased Firepower

The Virginia Block V boasts a significantly enlarged hull compared to its predecessors, making it a formidable presence in the ocean. Of the nine to ten submarines planned, eight will feature an 84-foot section added to the hull. This extension houses four large-diameter tubes, each capable of carrying seven Tomahawk cruise missiles. Including the 12 missiles in the bow, the Block V can accommodate up to 40 cruise missiles, enhancing its strike capability considerably.

However, the Block V is not limited to traditional Tomahawk land-attack missiles. The large tubes are versatile, allowing the deployment of large-diameter unmanned undersea vehicles, hypersonic prompt-strike missiles, and the new maritime strike version of the Tomahawk against ships. This flexibility in payload options significantly expands the operational scope of the submarine, enabling it to perform a wide range of missions that leverage its stealth and firepower.

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Operational Excellence and Versatility

The Block V is designed to act as a Swiss Army knife for undersea warfare, taking on roles traditionally assigned to retiring guided-missile submarines or SSGNs. According to Bryan Clark, a retired submarine officer and analyst, this shift will require a cultural change within the submarine community. The Block V’s introduction marks a significant change in operational concepts, expanding missions beyond the traditional intelligence-gathering roles.

Submariners are trained in various missions, including Tomahawk deployments, anti-ship missions, and swimmer delivery. With the Block V, these missions will become a more prominent part of training. The advent of the Tomahawk maritime strike missile adds an anti-ship dimension to the submarine’s capabilities, aligning with the expansive mission profile reminiscent of the Cold War era. This adaptability ensures that the Block V remains a crucial asset in modern naval strategy.

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Stealthy Design for Enhanced Performance

The Block V incorporates an acoustic superiority program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving listening capabilities and enhancing stealth. This program includes a new vertical array, advanced coatings, and machinery-quieting technology throughout the submarine. These upgrades make the Block V significantly quieter, improving its ability to operate undetected in contested waters.

The enhancements in stealth technology are crucial for the Block V to fulfill its intended role in undersea warfare. By improving its ability to detect other ships and submarines while remaining hidden, the Block V can effectively execute its missions without compromising its position. These advancements ensure that the Block V remains a critical asset in maintaining undersea dominance.

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Cost Considerations and Strategic Implications

The Virginia Block V is a substantial financial commitment, with each submarine costing over $3.5 billion. The total program value, including government-furnished equipment, is estimated at $35 billion if all ten submarines are purchased. This expense highlights the Navy’s recognition of the growing need to deploy more missiles to address threats from long-range anti-ship missiles.

Relying on submarines for strike missions presents a double-edged sword. While superior submarines increase the likelihood of operating within contested zones, the cost of creating a submerged force capable of delivering the necessary volume of firepower is significantly higher than utilizing surface forces. Navy analyst Jerry Hendrix suggests exploring alternatives like large unmanned surface combatants to enhance missile capacity affordably. This approach could balance the financial and strategic demands of modern naval warfare.

The Virginia Block V attack submarine represents a significant leap forward in naval capabilities, blending advanced technology with strategic versatility. As the Navy continues to evolve its operational concepts, the Block V’s role in modern warfare will undoubtedly be pivotal. As we look to the future of naval defense, how will the integration of unmanned systems further enhance the capabilities of submarines like the Block V?