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History of USS Michigan (SSBN:SSGN-727)

USS Michigan (SSBN-727/SSGN-727) is an Ohio-class submarine commissioned into the United States Navy in September 1982. Originally built as a ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), Michigan conducted strategic deterrent patrols throughout the Cold War, supporting America's nuclear triad. In 2007, Michigan was converted to a guided missile submarine (SSGN), enhancing her capabilities to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles and support special operations forces. Since then, USS Michigan has played a critical role in power projection and special warfare missions in the Pacific theater.

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ABOUT USS Michigan (SSBN:SSGN-727)

  • Second U.S. Navy Ship Named Michigan: USS Michigan (SSBN/SSGN-727) is the second ship in the U.S. Navy to be named after the state of Michigan, following the Civil War-era ironclad USS Michigan (later renamed USS Wolverine).
  • Ohio-Class Submarine: Michigan is an Ohio-class nuclear-powered submarine, originally commissioned as a ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) and later converted to a guided missile submarine (SSGN).
  • Commissioning Date: USS Michigan was commissioned on 11 September 1982, making her one of the earliest Ohio-class submarines.
  • SSBN to SSGN Conversion: In 2004-2006, Michigan underwent conversion from SSBN (carrying Trident ballistic missiles) to SSGN, which allowed her to carry up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles and support special operations forces.
  • Special Operations Capabilities: As an SSGN, Michigan is equipped to support up to 66 special operations personnel, such as Navy SEALs, and has lockout chambers for their deployment.
  • Dual Crews: Like other Ohio-class submarines, Michigan has two crews, Blue and Gold, to maximize operational availability and minimize time in port.
  • Historic Port Visit: In 2017, USS Michigan made a high-profile port call in Busan, South Korea, as a show of force amid heightened tensions with North Korea.
  • First SSGN West Coast Deployment: Michigan was the first converted SSGN to deploy to the Western Pacific in 2007, marking a new era in submarine operations for the U.S. Navy.
  • Crew Comfort: After conversion, Michigan was fitted with improved crew amenities, including exercise equipment and internet access, reflecting long-duration deployments.
  • Silent Service Record: Michigan has completed multiple strategic deterrent patrols as an SSBN and numerous clandestine and conventional missions as an SSGN, but the details of many missions remain classified due to their sensitive nature.

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