An Assessment of Nuclear-Powered Submarines: Operational Advantages and Safety Risks

Nuclear-powered submarines have been utilized by the militaries of the US, Russia, the UK, and China for decades. As an increased number of countries such as India, Brazil, and South Korea seek to join the relatively small group of states with nuclear submarine assets, operational and strategic risks pertaining to the deployment of such submarines may rise. While nuclear-powered submarines possess superior stealth, endurance, and speed as compared to diesel-electric models, their nuclear reactors can create long-term safety challenges for the environment if the vessels are damaged or sink. This Special Report provides insight into the various capabilities of nuclear-powered submarines, highlights risks, and offers recommendations on how to mitigate these risks.