Submarine Squadron 2

Submarine Squadron 2
Unit name	Submarine Squadron 2
Dates	1941 – present
Country	United States
Branch	United States Navy
Type	Submarine squadron
Role	Anti-submarine warfare, Power projection, Intelligence gathering
Size	Multiple Submarines
Command structure	Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT)
Garrison	Naval Submarine Base New London
Battles	World War II, Cold War, War on Terror

Submarine Squadron 2 is a major operational command within the United States Navy's Submarine Force Atlantic. Established during World War II, the squadron has been a cornerstone of American undersea warfare, operating a variety of attack and ballistic missile submarines from its primary base in Groton, Connecticut. Throughout its history, it has played critical roles in strategic deterrence, fleet operations, and Naval Special Warfare support across multiple global conflicts.

History

The squadron was established in 1941 as the United States prepared for potential involvement in World War II. Initially, it consisted of S-class and Gato-class submarines, which conducted vital war patrols against Imperial Japanese Navy forces in the Pacific Theater. Following the war, the squadron transitioned to newer Tench-class and Guppy-modified boats during the early Cold War. The 1960s marked a significant shift with the introduction of nuclear-powered vessels, including the revolutionary George Washington-class SSBNs, which carried the UGM-27 Polaris missile and formed a key leg of the nation's Nuclear triad. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the squadron's Los Angeles-class SSNs were routinely deployed to monitor Soviet Navy activity in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

Organization

The squadron is administratively and operationally under the authority of Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT), headquartered at Naval Station Norfolk. Its structure typically includes multiple submarine units, a dedicated staff for training, maintenance, and logistics, and close integration with supporting commands such as Submarine Group Two and Naval Submarine School. The squadron's organization is designed to ensure readiness for tasking by higher operational commanders, including the United States Second Fleet and United States European Command.

Submarines assigned

Over its long service, the squadron has operated a diverse array of submarines. Early assignments included Balao-class and Fleet Snorkel boats. The nuclear era brought assignments like the Ethan Allen-class and Lafayette-class SSBNs. In recent decades, its primary assets have been Los Angeles-class attack submarines, such as the USS *Springfield* (SSN-761) and the USS *Providence* (SSN-719). These vessels are equipped with advanced systems like the AN/BQQ-5 sonar suite and can launch BGM-109 Tomahawk missiles and Mark 48 ADCAP torpedoes.

Commanders

Command of the squadron is held by a senior captain in the United States Navy. Past commanders have often been highly experienced submariners who previously commanded SSNs or SSBNs. Notable former commanders include officers who later attained flag rank, such as Vice Admiral John H. Maurer and Rear Admiral Paul F. Sullivan. The commander's staff includes specialists in operations, engineering, and personnel, ensuring the squadron's submarines meet all Navy Department readiness standards.

Operations and deployments

Squadron submarines have been deployed globally in support of United States national security objectives. During the Cold War, they conducted intelligence collection missions against the Warsaw Pact, famously documented in accounts like *Blind Man's Bluff*. In the Post–Cold War era, operations have included Tomahawk missile strikes during Operation Desert Fox and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as Anti-submarine warfare exercises with allies like the Royal Navy. The squadron's boats also regularly participate in major NATO exercises such as Exercise Dynamic Mongoose and provide support for United States Special Operations Command forces.

Home port and facilities

The squadron's home port is Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut, the primary East Coast base for attack submarines. This major installation, often called the "Home of the Submarine Force," provides extensive support facilities, including dry docks operated by Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, weapons handling wharves, and the Submarine Force Library and Museum. The base offers direct access to deep-water training areas in the Atlantic Ocean and is colocated with the Naval Submarine School, which trains all incoming U.S. submarine officers and enlisted sailors.

Category:Submarine squadrons of the United States Navy Category:Military units and formations established in 1941 Category:Military in Connecticut