Located in Groton, Connecticut, the Naval Submarine Base New London is a United States Navy base that serves as the primary homeport for the Navy's submarine fleet on the East Coast. The base, also known as the Submarine Capital of the World, has a rich history dating back to 1868 when it was first established as a naval station.
Base Overview
The Naval Submarine Base New London is situated on the eastern bank of the Thames River, approximately 2.5 miles north of the city of Groton. The base spans over 687 acres and employs over 10,000 active-duty personnel, making it one of the largest employers in the region. The base is home to 16 attack submarines, 5 ballistic missile submarines, and 1 cruise missile submarine, as well as various support ships and auxiliary vessels.
History of the Base
The Naval Submarine Base New London has a long and storied history, with its origins dating back to the American Civil War. In 1868, the Navy established a naval station in Groton, which was later expanded during World War I to include a submarine base. During World War II, the base played a critical role in the war effort, with submarines based there conducting patrols and attacks against enemy ships. In the years following the war, the base continued to grow and expand, with new facilities and infrastructure being added to support the Navy’s submarine fleet.
Base Facilities and Amenities
The Naval Submarine Base New London offers a range of facilities and amenities to support the needs of personnel and their families. These include:
- Naval Submarine School: A training facility that provides instruction in submarine operations and maintenance
- Submarine Squadron 2: A unit that provides command and control for submarines based at the installation
- Fleet and Industrial Supply Center: A logistics facility that provides supply and maintenance support for submarines and other naval vessels
- Naval Health Clinic New England: A medical facility that provides healthcare services to personnel and their families
- MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) facilities: Including a gym, pool, and recreational areas
Submarine Squadrons and Support Commands
The Naval Submarine Base New London is home to several submarine squadrons and support commands, including:
| Squadron/Command | Description |
|---|---|
| Submarine Squadron 2 | Provides command and control for submarines based at the installation |
| Submarine Squadron 4 | Provides training and support for submarines and their crews |
| Submarine Development Squadron 12 | Conducts research and development of new submarine technologies and tactics |
| Naval Undersea Warfare Center | Develops and tests new submarine and undersea warfare systems |
Getting to the Base
The Naval Submarine Base New London is located approximately 45 miles southeast of Hartford, Connecticut, and 120 miles northeast of New York City. The base is accessible by car via Interstate 95, and by air through the Groton-New London Airport or the Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
Security and Access
Access to the Naval Submarine Base New London is restricted, and all visitors must undergo security screening before entering the base. Personnel and visitors must present a valid military ID or other authorized identification, and may be subject to search and inspection before being allowed to enter the base.
What is the primary mission of the Naval Submarine Base New London?
+The primary mission of the Naval Submarine Base New London is to provide a homeport for the Navy’s submarine fleet on the East Coast, as well as training and maintenance facilities for personnel.
What types of submarines are based at the Naval Submarine Base New London?
+The Naval Submarine Base New London is home to attack submarines, ballistic missile submarines, and cruise missile submarines, as well as various support ships and auxiliary vessels.
How do I get to the Naval Submarine Base New London?
+The Naval Submarine Base New London is accessible by car via Interstate 95, and by air through the Groton-New London Airport or the Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
