Cold War submarine strategy

Cold War submarine strategy centered on nuclear-powered submarines (especially ballistic missile submarines, or SSBNs) serving as a stealthy, secure nuclear deterrent. These submarines could remain hidden underwater for months, maintaining a fleet of nuclear missiles ready to retaliate if attacked. The key goal was deterrence: ensuring that any enemy thinking of starting a war would fear devastating counterattacks. Submarines also gathered intelligence and disrupted enemy shipping. The strategy relied on the submarines’ stealth, mobility, and survivability to prevent nuclear conflict through mutual assured destruction, thereby promoting stability during tense Cold War years.