These submarines are typically large, heavily armed vessels that can carry multiple nuclear warheads and launch them from a submerged position. Ballistic missile submarines are often referred to as "boomers" because of their massive firepower and strategic importance. These submarines play a key role in nuclear triad, alongside land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and strategic bombers, and are responsible for maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent capability. The United States Navy operates the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, which are the backbone of the country's nuclear deterrent force. These submarines are equipped with Trident II D-5 SLBMs, which have a range of over 7,500 miles and can carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) with nuclear warheads.
