About this Unit
Commander, Submarine Group 9 (COMSUBGRU 9) is a United States Navy command responsible for the administration, training, and operational readiness of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and supporting units based in the Pacific Northwest. Established in 1981 and headquartered at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor in Washington State, COMSUBGRU 9 provides oversight for the Navy's Ohio-class submarines assigned to the Pacific Fleet. The group plays a critical role in the nation’s strategic deterrence by ensuring the preparedness of submarines carrying the Trident ballistic missile system. Over the years, COMSUBGRU 9 has maintained a legacy of excellence in supporting the mission of nuclear deterrence and undersea warfare dominance.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: Commander, Submarine Group 9 (COMSUBGRU 9) was established in 1981 to oversee the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) based at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, Washington.
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Strategic Role: COMSUBGRU 9 is primarily responsible for the operational readiness, training, and administration of the Navy’s Ohio-class SSBNs in the Pacific, which form a critical part of the United States’ nuclear triad.
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Ohio-Class Home: The group commands all the Ohio-class SSBNs homeported at Bangor, one of only two bases for these submarines (the other is Kings Bay, Georgia).
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Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles: The submarines under COMSUBGRU 9 carry Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, capable of delivering nuclear warheads thousands of miles away with remarkable accuracy.
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Command Structure: COMSUBGRU 9 falls under Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMSUBPAC), and works closely with other submarine groups and commands.
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Global Deterrence: Submarines under COMSUBGRU 9 routinely conduct deterrent patrols, ensuring a hidden and survivable second-strike nuclear capability.
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Conversion to SSGNs: Four Ohio-class submarines, originally assigned to COMSUBGRU 9, were converted from SSBNs to guided-missile submarines (SSGNs), greatly expanding their conventional strike capability.
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Silent Service Community: The command is known for its tight-knit “silent service” culture, with a reputation for secrecy and professionalism due to the sensitive nature of its mission.
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Historical Milestone: In 2010, the USS Alabama (SSBN-731), part of COMSUBGRU 9, completed its 100th strategic patrol, marking a significant milestone for the group and the submarine fleet.
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Community Engagement: Despite their secrecy, COMSUBGRU 9 units are active in local communities, supporting STEM education and veterans’ events in the Pacific Northwest.
