About this Unit
USS Daniel Webster (SSBN-626) was a Lafayette-class ballistic missile submarine commissioned by the United States Navy in April 1964. Named after the renowned American statesman Daniel Webster, the submarine was designed for nuclear deterrence patrols during the Cold War, equipped to launch Polaris and later Poseidon ballistic missiles. Throughout her service, she completed numerous strategic deterrent patrols as part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet of “41 for Freedom” submarines. USS Daniel Webster was decommissioned in August 1990, having played a significant role in maintaining strategic stability during her operational years.
Historical Facts
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Benjamin Franklin Class: USS Daniel Webster (SSBN-626) was a Benjamin Franklin-class ballistic missile submarine, part of the “41 for Freedom” fleet built during the Cold War to carry nuclear missiles as a deterrent.
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Named for a Statesman: The submarine was named after Daniel Webster, a renowned American statesman, senator, and secretary of state known for his powerful oratory and contributions to American law and diplomacy.
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Commissioned in 1964: USS Daniel Webster was commissioned on April 9, 1964, after being launched from Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Connecticut.
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Unique “Bow Planes on Sail” Design: To reduce the “porpoising” effect (pitching movement) at periscope depth, Daniel Webster was uniquely fitted with diving planes on her sail (fairwater planes), rather than the bow. This design was distinct among U.S. submarines.
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Poseidon and Polaris Missiles: The submarine initially carried Polaris ballistic missiles and was later converted to carry the more advanced Poseidon missiles, enhancing her nuclear deterrence capability.
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Dual Crew System: Like other “boomers,” Daniel Webster operated with Blue and Gold crews to maximize her time at sea, with each crew rotating to keep the submarine on patrol for extended periods.
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Over 60 Deterrent Patrols: During her service, Daniel Webster completed more than 60 strategic deterrent patrols, playing a critical role in the U.S. Navy’s nuclear deterrence mission.
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“Webster’s Dictionary” Nickname: Crew members affectionately called the boat “Webster’s Dictionary,” a play on both the ship’s namesake and the famous reference book.
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Deactivation and Recycling: USS Daniel Webster was deactivated in 1990 and subsequently decommissioned in 1990. She was scrapped by 1994 through the Navy’s Nuclear-Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program.
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Fairwater Planes Preserved: The unique fairwater planes (sail planes) that set Daniel Webster apart were preserved and are displayed at the Submarine Force Library and Museum in Groton, Connecticut.
