Submarine technology has evolved dramatically with the advancement of technology, transforming naval tactics and global maritime security. From the first US Navy submarine, the USS Holland (SS-1), commissioned in 1900, to modern nuclear-powered submarines equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), the development of submarines has reshaped military operations and strategic maritime initiatives worldwide.
The USS Holland
The USS Holland (SS-1), the first submarine of the US Navy, was designed by John Philip Holland and officially commissioned in 1900. At 54 feet in length, this early submarine communicated externally by surfacing and signaling with flags. Despite its flaws, it achieved the groundbreaking feat of underwater navigation, transforming the dream of traveling beneath the waves into reality.
USS Holland. Credit: US Navy
Holland's design allowed the submarine to operate on the surface with an internal combustion engine, switching to an electric motor when submerged. It also featured a bow torpedo tube and a dynamite gun that used compressed air to launch projectiles. Ultimately, Holland's innovative design earned the approval of the US Navy, and on April 1, 1900, the USS Holland was officially commissioned, marking the beginning of the US Navy's submarine fleet.
World War II
During World War II, the US submarine force proved itself to be a formidable combat force. Although constituting only 1.6% of the Navy's total strength, it played a decisive role, sinking a third of the Japanese Navy and nearly two-thirds of Japan's merchant fleet, crippling the nation's wartime capabilities.
The Gato-class submarines, produced in large numbers between 1941 and 1943, marked the first mass production of submarines in US Navy history. As radar, electronic surveillance, and communication technologies rapidly advanced, the Gato-class conning towers were redesigned to accommodate new equipment such as masts and antennas.
Gato class submarine. Credit: US Navy
The digital revolution
Following World War II, submarine technology entered a new digital era. In the 1950s, the US Navy introduced the USS Albacore (AGSS-569), a submarine with a streamlined hull design that broke previous underwater speed limits. Then, in 1955, the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, broke through endurance limitations, heralding the dawn of the nuclear submarine era.
The Mobile Acoustic Communication System (MACS), tested aboard the Nautilus, became the final breakthrough experiment that ushered submarines into the digital communication age.
USS Albacore. Credit: US Navy
USS Nautilus. Credit: US Navy
Nuclear submarines
The introduction of nuclear submarines revolutionized the US Navy's ability to conduct extended covert operations and operate in extreme depths. These submarines could dive beneath thick ice layers and even surface at the North Pole, unlocking new strategic possibilities for underwater warfare.
In 1960, the USS Triton (SSRN/SSN-586) completed a successful underwater circumnavigation of the globe, setting the stage for future submarine tactics. Triton's cutting-edge digital communication systems, coupled with advanced surveillance technologies, enabled its 176 crew members to conduct long-range, undetected underwater missions.
Building on the success of the USS Triton, the Los Angeles-class attack submarines and later strategic nuclear submarines capable of launching ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads became key components of the US Navy's formidable combat strength. These submarines were quieter, more advanced, and equipped with sophisticated digital communication systems, sensors, and noise reduction technologies, significantly enhancing their stealth capabilities and operational effectiveness.
USS Triton. Credit: US Navy
USS Los Angeles. Credit: US Navy
The 21st century
As we entered the 21st century, the continued advancement of digital technologies and AI further reshaped submarine operations and tactics. Modern submarines are now equipped with highly advanced automation systems that improve precision and responsiveness in both navigation and attack functions.
Contemporary sonar systems integrate deep learning techniques, enabling real-time target identification and reaction, which significantly boosts tactical effectiveness. Furthermore, AI technology enables submarines to process vast amounts of data more efficiently, providing commanders with real-time battlefield intelligence and enhancing decision-making capabilities.
About the author
Jason Yi-Bing Lin is currently the Lifetime Chair Professor of the Department of Information Engineering and the Winbond Chair of Electronics at the National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University. He served as Deputy Minister and Acting Minister of Science and Technology (2014-2015). Lin is an ACM Fellow, IEEE Fellow, AAAS Fellow, and IET Fellow.