Submerged Precision: How US Navy Submarines Launch Tomahawk Cruise Missiles Without Submerging Themselves
The United States Navy relies on its fleet of submarines to project power and deliver precision strikes from a submerged position. One of the critical components that enable this capability is the Tomahawk cruise missile, which is launched from submarines in a manner that ensures both effectiveness and safety. This article will explore the fascinating technology and engineering behind the process of firing Tomahawk cruise missiles from U.S. Navy submarines, and how it prevents flooding and maintains pressure integrity.
Launching Tomahawk Missiles from Torpedo Tubes and VLS Systems
The U.S. Navy's submarines utilize two main methods to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles: through the torpedo tubes and via vertical launch systems (VLS).
Launching via Torpedo Tubes
Tomahawk cruise missiles can be launched from the torpedo tubes of a submarine. This method involves intentionally flooding the tubes to create a watertight seal, allowing the missile to be fired without the risk of water ingress. Once the missile is fired, the tubes are immediately re-pressurized and drained to ensure the submarine remains dry and ready for further missions.
Launching via VLS Tubes
Vertical launch systems (VLS) tubes provide an alternative method of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles. These tubes are sealed and single-use, meaning they flood when the missile is deployed and do not get reloaded while the submarine is at sea. This approach prevents any potential for persisting moisture to affect the launch process.
Maintenance of Pressure Integrity and Preventing Flooding
To ensure the safety and functionality of the submarine, maintaining the correct pressure balance is crucial. The missiles are stored and launched from pressure tight containers that are pressurized to match the surrounding water pressure. A key component of this process is the pressure door, which remains closed most of the time and only opens during the launch sequence.
The Pressure Door Mechanism
The pressure door is a water-tight barrier that seals the launch tube most of the time. Prior to launching, the door is opened, and a pressure balance is established between the launch tube and the surrounding environment. This ensures that when the missile is fired, the force of the explosion does not cause flooding and maintains the integrity of the submarine.
The Frangible Diaphragm
A frangible diaphragm is a crucial part of the launch mechanism. This internal pressure barrier remains intact until the missile deploys. Once the rocket launches, the resulting pressure exerted by the missile's engine breaks the diaphragm, allowing the missile to exit the tube in a rapid and controlled blast of air and exhaust gas.
Operational Suitability and Anti-Submarine Warfare
The ability to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles from submerged submarines enhances the operational flexibility of the U.S. Navy. This capability is particularly advantageous in anti-submarine warfare scenarios, where precise strike capabilities are essential.
Underwater Precision Strikes
By launching from a submerged position, submarines can remain undetected and continue to deploy their payloads from a position of stealth. This capability is invaluable in modern naval operations, where stealth and surprise are critical to mission success.
Conclusion
The process of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles from submarines is a sophisticated blend of engineering and strategic planning. By utilizing torpedo tubes and VLS systems, submarines can ensure the delivery of these powerful weapons while maintaining the integrity of their own structure. The pressure tight mechanisms and specialized launch tubes play a crucial role in achieving this balance, making the U.S. Navy submarine fleet one of the most formidable forces in the world.
Understanding the technical details of submarine missile launch systems provides valuable insights into the operational capabilities of the U.S. Navy and the challenges faced in modern warfare.