Tactical speed
Encyclopedia
Tactical speed is the maximum speed of a submarine
at which it is possible to remain undetected, whilst still having the capability of detecting other ships.
Tactical speed is limited by the acoustic noise generated by the ship itself, which affects the ability to detect external sources of sound. One of the main contributors to internal sources of noise is the propulsion system.
Tactical speed for modern submarines with nuclear propulsion is at the level of 8-13 knots, but the newest ships of IV generation can achieve tactical speeds over 20 knots.
The actual maximum speed of a submarine can be much greater than its tactical speed. For instance, the maximum speed (when submerged) of USS Scranton (SSN-756)
is 33 knots, but its maximum tactical speed is only 12 knots.
Submarine
A submarine is a watercraft capable of independent operation below the surface of the water. It differs from a submersible, which has more limited underwater capability...
at which it is possible to remain undetected, whilst still having the capability of detecting other ships.
Tactical speed is limited by the acoustic noise generated by the ship itself, which affects the ability to detect external sources of sound. One of the main contributors to internal sources of noise is the propulsion system.
Tactical speed for modern submarines with nuclear propulsion is at the level of 8-13 knots, but the newest ships of IV generation can achieve tactical speeds over 20 knots.
The actual maximum speed of a submarine can be much greater than its tactical speed. For instance, the maximum speed (when submerged) of USS Scranton (SSN-756)
USS Scranton (SSN-756)
USS Scranton , a , is the second ship of the United States Navy to be named for Scranton, Pennsylvania.The contract to build her was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Newport News, Virginia on 26 November 1984 and construction began on 29 August 1986. She was launched on...
is 33 knots, but its maximum tactical speed is only 12 knots.