Notes on Military Submarines Around the World

Introduction

• Overview of military submarines: 471 known submarines globally.
• Significance of submarines in projecting power and protecting national interests.
• 43 countries operate submarines, but most have small fleets.

Submarine Types and Capabilities

Smaller Navies

• Smaller countries typically operate diesel-powered submarines.
• Diesel submarines require surfacing to recharge batteries, making them less effective than nuclear submarines.
• Advantages: Stealth and ability to lurk undetected.
• Countries with limited resources benefit significantly from even one submarine.

Israel

• Operates five modern submarines, two capable of underwater operation for a week.
• Can launch nuclear warhead missiles, aimed at deterring threats from Iran.
• Submarines purchased from Germany.

Germany

• Operates six long-range submarines and exports submarine technology.

Australia

• Currently has a small fleet but acquiring advanced nuclear-powered submarines through a deal with the US and UK.

Greece and Turkey

• Both have a similar number of submarines focused on securing coastal waters.
• Neither country has nuclear-powered submarines but possess advanced diesel submarines.

India

• Operates at least two nuclear-powered submarines with nuclear missile capabilities.
• Plans to build a fleet of six advanced attack submarines.

Iran

• Operates four large diesel-powered submarines and at least 15 mini subs for coastal patrols.

Major Powers

North Korea

• Submarine fleet estimated at between 36 and 85 submarines, with varying degrees of functionality.
• Capable of launching nuclear-armed missiles despite aging technology.

China

• Operates 58 submarines, with a growing number of nuclear-powered subs.
• Building new stealthy submarines to project power regionally and globally.

Russia

• Second-largest fleet with 62 submarines, half powered by nuclear energy.
• Capable of launching nuclear weapons from submarines.
• Recently unveiled the Poseidon torpedo, a long-range nuclear weapon.

United States

• Most powerful submarine force with 68 nuclear-powered submarines.
• Submarines capable of launching multiple nuclear warheads over long distances (up to 12,000 km).
• Ongoing construction of 12 new submarines to replace aging fleet by 2042.

Conclusion

• Submarines play a crucial role in national defense and power projection.
• Continued advancements in submarine technology and capabilities are expected.
• Future inquiries and topics for further discussion on submarines are welcomed.