Section G.3: What is the future of US ballistic missile subs (SSBN)?
The Ohio class currently consists of 18 submarines (SSBN 726-743), The first 8 submarines (SSBN 726-733) are equipped with 24 Trident I/C-4 missiles; the other boats have 24 Trident II/D-5 missiles. Previously, planning called for keeping all 18 boats in service. The original plan was to refit all 8 C-4 boats with D-5 missiles, but after the Cold War it was decided to cancel the C-4 to D-5 refit. Under the Nuclear Posture Review, it was decided that the first 4 boats (SSBN 726-729) would be withdrawn from strategic service, and the 4 other C-4 boats (SSBN 730-733) would be upgraded to D-5 missiles. The 14 remaining SSBNs would provide the bulk of US strategic/nuclear forces, with up to 2,688 warheads under START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) I, or 1,750 warheads (of 3,500 total) under START II. The fate of the first 4 Ohios (SSBN 726-729) in uncertain. The only modification currently planned is to render them “non-accountable” under START. This means the vessels will be permanently