About this Unit
USS Los Alamos (AFDB-7) was a floating dry dock constructed for the United States Navy during the mid-20th century. Commissioned in 1945, it served as a critical support asset, enabling the repair and maintenance of large naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and submarines, while deployed in remote locations. Throughout its service, Los Alamos operated primarily in the Pacific, playing a vital logistical role during the Cold War by extending the operational reach of the U.S. fleet. Eventually, the dry dock was decommissioned and transferred to the Republic of Chile in 1995, where it continued its service under a new flag.
Historical Facts
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Floating Dry Dock: USS Los Alamos (AFDB-7) was not a ship, but a floating dry dock designed to repair and service naval vessels while afloat, providing critical support far from established naval bases.
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Named After a Secret City: The dry dock was named after Los Alamos, New Mexico, the site of the Manhattan Project and the birthplace of the atomic bomb.
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Modular Construction: AFDB-7 was constructed in modular sections—each called a “section”—which could be assembled or disassembled and towed independently, allowing for great flexibility in deployment.
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Built by Multiple Yards: The sections were built by Chicago Bridge & Iron Company at Morgan City, Louisiana, and shipped to their assembly location.
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First Nuclear Submarine Dry Dock: USS Los Alamos became the first floating dry dock specifically designed to service nuclear-powered submarines, including the famous USS Nautilus (SSN-571).
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Arctic Operations: In 1962, the dry dock made history by docking the USS Skate (SSN-578) after her surfacing at the North Pole, demonstrating the ability to maintain nuclear submarines even after Arctic operations.
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Stationed at Holy Loch, Scotland: Los Alamos was stationed at Holy Loch, Scotland, serving as a forward repair facility for the US Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet during the Cold War.
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Support for Polaris Program: The dry dock played a crucial role in supporting the Polaris ballistic missile submarine program, ensuring the readiness of the nuclear deterrent at sea.
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International Crew: At various times, British workers and Royal Navy personnel trained and worked aboard Los Alamos alongside Americans, highlighting close US-UK naval cooperation.
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Final Fate: After decades of service, Los Alamos was decommissioned and towed back to the United States. Some sections were scrapped, while others found new life in commercial or foreign service.
