How SSN submarines are all set to become a game-changer?
Yes, SSN and not SSBN. Of-course both count. However, the former would could count even more while the latter continues to play it's role of deterrent.
Inputs for the article have been inferred from here and other contemporary insights on the subject.
For starters, an SSN is a nuclear-powered general-purpose attack submarine. SSN is the US Navy hull classification symbol for such vessels; the SS denotes a submarine and the N denotes nuclear power. The designation SSN is used for interoperability throughout NATO under STANAG 1166, though navies use other terms.
On the other hand, SSBN is the US Navy hull classification symbol for a nuclear-powered, ballistic missile-carrying submarine. The SS denotes "submarine" or "submersible", the B denotes "ballistic missile," and the N denotes "nuclear powered." The designation SSBN is also used throughout NATO under STANAG 1166
Their capacity to minimise electromagnetic signature is key. Forthcoming, SSN(X) is expected to raise the bar to the greatest extend.
Further their capacity to strike cruise missiles upto 200 miles by outsourcing the control of those missiles to drones and satellites, the SSNs are expected to become the most potent platform in sea for area denial operations and launching attacks on other platforms.
Also, through their capacity to launch UUAVs(underwater unmanned attack vehicles) and other underwater water probes/reconnaissance missions.
Infact, there is a belief, we would soon have a plethora of such platforms in sea that make legacy aircraft carriers and other platforms sitting ducks.
Logically, the argument carries a lot of heft.
UUAVs have already become a reality and a potent force to content with.
So, clearly we're indeed at the cusp of change as far as naval technology and redundancy of legacy platforms go.
Kindly peruse our business interests here.