When National Defense Knows No Budget: The Most Expensive Military Vehicles in History
3. Submarine of the Benjamin Franklin class
Joined the Service: 1964
Produced by: Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Newport News Shipbuilding, General Dynamics Electric Boat
Price: $1.2 billion
The Benjamin-Franklin class submarines were operational from the 1960s until the 2000s, serving as a key component of the United States Navy's undersea fleet. These submarines were designed to replace the older James-Madison class and were initially equipped with the Polaris A3 ballistic missile system. However, as missile technology advanced, the Benjamin-Franklin class underwent modifications to accommodate the more powerful Poseidon C3 missile.
With a price tag of approximately $1.2 billion, these submarines were notable for their capabilities, including extended range and improved payload capacity. Their design allowed for greater operational flexibility, making them a vital asset during the Cold War and beyond.
In conclusion, the Benjamin-Franklin class submarines exemplify the evolution of naval warfare technology and the strategic importance of undersea capabilities. Their long service life and adaptability to new missile systems reflect the Navy's commitment to maintaining a robust and effective deterrent force.
In the 1980s, the Benjamin Franklin-class submarines underwent significant modifications, with six of them upgraded to accommodate the Trident C4 missile system. These enhancements allowed the submarines to maintain their strategic relevance in an evolving defense landscape.
Measuring 425 feet in length and powered by the S5W nuclear reactor, the Benjamin Franklin class was larger than the Los Angeles class submarines, providing greater operational capabilities and endurance. Despite their impressive specifications, only two submarines from this class remain active today, highlighting the shift in naval technology and strategy over the decades.
In conclusion, the Benjamin Franklin-class submarines represent a crucial chapter in the history of U.S. naval power. Their modifications and enduring legacy underscore the importance of adaptability in military technology, ensuring that these submarines could meet the demands of modern warfare while contributing to national defense.
