dep@ius3.ius.cs.cmu.edu (David Pugh) (10/09/89)
From: dep@ius3.ius.cs.cmu.edu (David Pugh)
Building a fast-attack sub is expensive (the yet to be built Seawolf is
expected to cost $1.6 billion @). A large part of the expense is building
a reactor powerful enough to most the sub at 30+ knots.
But, subs spend most of their time at 3-5 knots. Would it be cost effective to
build a nuclear sub with a reactor just powerful enough for a 5 knot cruise
(plus enough stored energy to allow limited runs to 30+ knots)? While this may
not be effective for fast-convoy escort or convoy hunting, it could be very
effective in barrier operations -- guarding the GIUK gap, patroling under the
ice in the Canadian NW, clearing an area which a convoy is expected to pass
through, etc.
--
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