Nuclear Missile Submarine Deploys as US Mulls Future Replacement
The Pacific-based nuclear ballistic-missile submarine USS Kentucky has deployed for the first time since 2011 after an overhaul as part of efforts to extend the life of aging Ohio-class boats while the U.S. develops a replacement.
The Kentucky left Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, Washington, earlier this week, according to aNavy statement issued Tuesday.
The ship's overhaul, which began in 2012, included nuclear refueling and other fixes designed to keep the boat operating for another 20 years, the Navy statement said.
The Kentucky and the other 13 nuclear missile-capable submarines in the Ohio class were designed to last 30 years; however, delays in developing and funding their replacements led to the creation of a 40-month overhaul program for each ship.
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