Most Expensive Submarines In The World

May 5, 2020 Claire. F Blog, Wheels 0

kilo-class submarine

Submarines, conquering the ocean depths with silent grace, are marvels of engineering. However, some subs transcend mere marvels, transforming into symbols of technological prowess and strategic might. These elite vessels boast features that redefine underwater warfare and exploration, all at a cost that would make even billionaires flinch. Join us as we explore the top 10 most expensive submarines ever built, a fascinating glimpse into the cutting edge of underwater technology.

10 Most Expensive Submarines In The World

Here’s a list of the top 10 most expensive submarines ever built:

  1. French Triomphant-class ballistic missile submarines ($88.4 billion for 4 subs)While not the most expensive per unit, the sheer cost of the entire program to build four of these colossal French nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) lands them at the top spot. Each submarine is estimated to have cost around 13 billion francs (approximately $2.15 billion USD at the time). These stealthy giants are armed with ballistic missiles and carry out strategic patrols to deter potential adversaries.
  2. Seawolf-class attack submarines (US Navy) ($3 billion per unit)The Seawolf-class attack submarines were the most expensive submarines ever built by the United States Navy. These Cold War-era marvels were designed for unmatched speed, stealth, and diving capabilities. However, due to their exorbitant price tag, only three Seawolf-class submarines were built.
  3. Virginia-class attack submarines (US Navy) ($2.8 billion per unit) The Virginia-class submarines are the current attack submarines of the US Navy, succeeding the Seawolf class. While less expensive than their predecessors, they are still incredibly advanced and pack a powerful punch. These nuclear-powered submarines are designed for a wide range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and special forces operations.
  4. Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines (US Navy) ($2.7 billion per unit) The Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines are the mainstay of the US Navy’s underwater nuclear deterrent force. These colossal submarines are armed with Trident ballistic missiles and can patrol undetected for months at a time. Currently, the US Navy is undergoing a program to replace these submarines with the next-generation Columbia class.
  5. Yasen-class attack submarines (Russia) ($1.3 billion per unit) The Yasen-class, also known as the Graney-class, are a series of nuclear-powered attack submarines developed by Russia. These advanced submarines boast significant improvements over previous Russian designs in terms of noise reduction, stealth, and weaponry.
  6. Borei-class ballistic missile submarines (Russia) ($1 billion per unit) The Borei-class, also known as the Dolgoruky-class, are nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines that are the backbone of Russia’s modern underwater nuclear deterrent force. These stealthy submarines are armed with Bulava ballistic missiles and are designed for extended patrols.
  7. Astute-class attack submarines (Royal Navy) (£1.3 billion per unit – approximately $1.6 billion USD)** The Astute-class attack submarines are the current generation of nuclear-powered attack submarines in service with the Royal Navy. These technologically advanced vessels are designed for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and special forces operations.
  8. Suffren-class attack submarines (French Navy) ($1.2 billion per unit) The Suffren-class attack submarines are the latest nuclear-powered attack submarines designed for the French Navy. These next-generation submarines offer superior stealth, firepower, and endurance compared to previous French submarines.
  9. Trafalgar-class submarines (Royal Navy) (£750 million per unit – approximately $940 million USD) The Trafalgar-class submarines were a class of nuclear-powered attack submarines built for the Royal Navy. They were the final evolution of the successful Trafalgar/SWiftsure class and served as the mainstay of the British sub fleet until the introduction of the Astute class.
  10. Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines (Royal Navy) (£1 billion per unit – approximately $1.25 billion USD) The Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines are the Royal Navy’s contribution to the UK’s nuclear deterrent. These four nuclear-powered submarines are armed with Trident ballistic missiles and are responsible for maintaining the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent.

Is there such a thing as a luxury submarine?

The world of luxury submarines is a fascinating mix of reality and future potential. Here’s a breakdown of the “Top 5” list:

  • Real and Available:
    • Triton 3300/6600: These submersibles from Triton Submarines are very much real. They are operational and can be purchased, though the price tag is hefty starting at around $3 million
  • Concepts with Potential:
    • MIGALOO: This behemoth submersible superyacht concept by MIGALOO has not been built yet, but it has garnered significant attention. There’s a possibility it could be built for a truly extravagant client.
    • U-Boat Worx Nautilus & Kryalos Submarines K-RAW: While U-Boat Worx offers operational luxury submersibles, the specific Nautilus model for this list might be a concept design showcasing their capabilities for customization. Similarly, details about the K-RAW’s operational status are unclear.
    • Ocean Emerald: This concept by Yacht Island Design seems to be purely in the design phase with no confirmed plans for construction.

So, while some on the list are operational luxury submarines you can potentially buy, others are exciting design concepts that showcase the future possibilities of this niche market.

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