About this Unit
The Submarine Force East Coast, often referred to as the Atlantic Submarine Force, has played a pivotal role in U.S. naval operations since its establishment in the early 20th century. Headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, it oversees the training, maintenance, and deployment of U.S. Navy submarines operating in the Atlantic Ocean and beyond. Throughout World War II and the Cold War, East Coast submarines conducted vital patrols, surveillance, and deterrence missions against enemy naval forces. Today, the Submarine Force East Coast continues to provide strategic deterrence, intelligence gathering, and support for global maritime security operations.
Historical Facts
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Birthplace of the U.S. Submarine Force: The Submarine Force East Coast traces its origins to the commissioning of USS Holland (SS-1) at the Holland Torpedo Boat Station in New Suffolk, Long Island, in 1900, marking the start of the U.S. Navy's submarine service.
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Primary Homeport - Naval Submarine Base New London: Established in 1916 in Groton, Connecticut, this base is known as the "Home of the Submarine Force" and is the oldest submarine base in the world.
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World War II Valor: Submarines based on the East Coast played a vital role in training, development, and anti-submarine warfare, preparing crews for critical missions in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.
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USS Nautilus (SSN-571): The world’s first nuclear-powered submarine was launched from Groton in 1954, revolutionizing naval warfare and submarine endurance.
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Operation Sunshine: In 1958, USS Nautilus became the first vessel to complete a submerged transit of the North Pole, a historic feat that demonstrated the strategic reach of nuclear submarines.
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Stealth Patrols During the Cold War: East Coast submarines carried out clandestine surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions against Soviet naval forces in the Atlantic, often in extreme secrecy.
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Development of Ballistic Missile Submarines: The first U.S. ballistic missile submarine, USS George Washington (SSBN-598), was built in Groton and conducted its first deterrent patrol in 1960, establishing the "second strike" nuclear capability.
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Submarine School Legacy: The Naval Submarine School at New London has trained generations of submariners since 1916, earning a reputation for producing some of the world's most skilled undersea warriors.
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Women in Submarines: In 2011, the Submarine Force East Coast welcomed the first female officers aboard ballistic missile submarines, beginning a new era of inclusivity in submarine operations.
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Honoring Sacrifices – USS Thresher (SSN-593): The tragic loss of USS Thresher in 1963 off the East Coast led to significant safety improvements in submarine design and operation, shaping the modern submarine safety program (SUBSAFE).
