The US Navy is under pressure regarding its most important submarine project ‘Columbia Class’. These are the same submarines on which America’s maritime nuclear counter power rests. These are to be brought in place of the old ‘Ohio Class’ submarines, whose life is now coming to an end. Delays in the construction of this $132 billion project and technical challenges have slowed down the pace of this entire program. Construction of USS District of Columbia, the first submarine of the Columbia class, began in 2021. Now it is about 60 percent complete, but its delivery has been delayed by about 17 months from the scheduled time. Earlier there was a plan to hand it over early, now it is expected to be handed over by 2029.

Why did the Columbia class submarine become a headache for America?

After this, a target has been set to start patrolling its sea in 2031. This delay is a matter of concern for America, because the first submarine of the Ohio class will start retiring from 2027. If the new Columbia class is not ready on time, there could be a vacuum in America’s maritime nuclear presence. At a time when tensions with Russia and China have increased, this threat becomes more serious.

What is the strength of Columbia class submarine?

• The Columbia class will be a fleet of a total of 12 submarines, which will replace the 14 old Ohio class. These submarines will be the largest American submarines ever.
• Their special thing is that such a nuclear reactor has been installed in them, which will not need refueling throughout its life. This means that they will be able to work without major overhaul for about 40 years.
• Each Columbia class submarine will have 16 Trident missiles, which can carry multiple warheads and can hit any corner of the world.
• Because they are hidden in the depths of the sea, it is very difficult to find them. This is why they are considered the safest part of America’s nuclear power.

When will you join the US Army?

Defense website 1945 reported in its news that the US government’s monitoring agencies are warning about the construction of this submarine. The cost of this program is increasing and the deadline is slipping again and again. The main reasons for this are lack of skilled workers in shipbuilding factories, complex technology and supply-related problems. The Navy plans to have the Columbia class fully operational by the early 2040s. But if the delay continues like this, America may face difficulties in maintaining its maritime nuclear power. That is why now this has become a new challenge.