PORT TOWNSEND – Nuclear-powered submarines could be docked for short periods of time at Naval Magazine Indian Island across the bay from Port Townsend by late fall or early winter, the base’s commanding officer said Monday.
Navy Cmdr. George Whitbred said that at least two SSGNs – former ballistic missile submarines converted for special operations and carrying Tomahawk cruise missiles – and two SSNs – which find and destroy enemy submarines and surface vessels and use torpedoes and cruise missiles – are expected to be at the island’s loading dock.
Both types of submarines are nuclear-powered – but those calling at Indian Island carry only non-nuclear cruise missiles and torpedoes.
Whitbred said he expects the vessels to be at the island for only two days each.
“They will get what they need loaded out and go back to Bremerton,” Whitbred told more than 50 persons attending Monday’s weekly Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce luncheon at Fort Worden State Park
It was announced more than a year ago that at least two of four converted guided missile/special operations submarines, probably the USS Ohio and USS Florida, would use Naval Magazine Indian Island in the future to load and unload non-nuclear weapons and take care of minor maintenance.
Two other former Trident submarines, the USS Michigan and USS Georgia, are also being converted to carry guided missiles and Navy SEALS and other special operation forces.
These four retooled subs have a unique mission – fight terrorists and other elusive enemies.
