SM-1 Block II

The SM-1 Block II was an early American nuclear-powered submarine launched in the 1950s. It was part of the U.S. Navy’s effort to develop submarines with nuclear engines, allowing them to stay submerged for long periods without surfacing. This class of submarine was used mainly for research, training, and testing nuclear propulsion technology, marking a significant step in naval innovation. The SM-1 project laid the groundwork for later, more advanced nuclear submarines by demonstrating the practicality and strategic benefits of nuclear propulsion in naval operations.