Do you know about the world’s fastest submarines?
Submarines are an important part of any country’s Naval Fleet.
They travel underwater without being detected and spy on the enemy or even deploy lethal weapons, lay mines, sink ships, and fire missiles.
Some of the world’s fastest submarines are nuclear-powered.
They use nuclear reactors to generate steam that powers turbines and propellors, allowing the subs to travel at high speed for longer durations.
Soviet-era K-222 achieved the title of fastest submarine in the world when it achieved a speed of 44.7 knots in 1971.
The Akula Class Submarines of Russia are also known for their speed, attaining around 35 knots.
The U.S also has a sophisticated fleet of naval submarines, such as the Seawolf Class and Virginia Class.
HMS Ambush is an Astute-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine of the Royal Navy with a maximum speed of 30 knots.
USS Virginia, also referred to as SSN-774 is a nuclear cruise missile attack sub and the lead ship of her class.
Imperator Aleksandr III is a Borei-Class Nuclear Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine of the Russian Navy, which can reach 25 knots.
Shang Class Submarines are a part of the Chinese Navy and are considered one of the fastest in the world.
There are diesel submarines, though they are slower than their nuclear counterparts.
A submarine’s speed is determined by many factors like its size, propulsion system and water conditions.
Speed is not the only consideration when discussing submarine design since stealth and silent functioning is equally important.