About this Unit
USS Ulysses S. Grant (SSBN-631) was a Benjamin Franklin-class fleet ballistic missile submarine commissioned by the United States Navy in 1964. Named after the 18th President of the United States and Civil War general, the submarine was part of America’s strategic nuclear deterrent during the Cold War, conducting numerous deterrent patrols armed with Polaris and later Poseidon ballistic missiles. Over its three decades of service, the USS Ulysses S. Grant played a vital role in maintaining the balance of power and ensuring national security. The submarine was decommissioned in 1992 following the end of the Cold War and advances in submarine technology.
Historical Facts
• Namesake: USS Ulysses S. Grant (SSBN-631) was named after the 18th President of the United States and Civil War General, Ulysses S. Grant, honoring his leadership and service.
• Launch Date: The submarine was launched on November 2, 1963, at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Connecticut, and commissioned on July 17, 1964.
• Polaris to Poseidon: Originally equipped with Polaris A-3 ballistic missiles, the USS Ulysses S. Grant was later converted to carry Poseidon C-3 missiles, significantly enhancing its striking power during the Cold War.
• Blue and Gold Crews: Like other ballistic missile submarines, the Grant operated with two alternating crews, Blue and Gold, allowing for maximum operational deployment and minimal time in port.
• First Deterrent Patrol: The submarine embarked on her first strategic deterrent patrol in January 1965, playing a key role in the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy.
• Longest Patrol: In 1967, the USS Ulysses S. Grant completed one of the longest submerged patrols of its era, remaining underwater for over 70 days to maintain stealth and readiness.
• Home Ports: Over her career, the submarine operated from several home ports, including Holy Loch, Scotland; Rota, Spain; and later from Kings Bay, Georgia after her overhaul.
• Special Operations: The Grant participated in numerous classified missions and special operations during the Cold War, details of which remain confidential even today.
• Decommissioning: After nearly three decades of service, the submarine was decommissioned on June 12, 1992, and scrapped as part of the Navy's Nuclear-Powered Ship and Submarine Recycling Program in Bremerton, Washington.
• Legacy: The USS Ulysses S. Grant (SSBN-631) completed over 70 deterrent patrols, earning a reputation for reliability and contributing to the effectiveness of the U.S. Navy's "41 for Freedom" fleet of ballistic missile submarines.
