Trump Orders Deployment of Two U.S. Nuclear Submarines Amid Rising Tensions with Russia

In a surprising announcement on Truth Social, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he has ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines to be deployed to what he described as "appropriate regions." The move appears to be a direct response to recent threatening remarks by Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev, though Trump did not provide specific details about the submarines or their destinations.

Trump explained the decision as a precautionary step, saying it was made “just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that.” While it’s unclear which class of submarines have been deployed, the U.S. Navy operates three types of nuclear-powered subs, with only one type — the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) — carrying nuclear weapons.

The Ohio-class “boomers” are at the heart of America’s nuclear deterrent. Each of these 14 submarines is armed with up to 20 Trident ballistic missiles, capable of delivering nuclear warheads to targets over 4,600 miles away. These submarines are designed for stealth and long-term deployments, often remaining submerged for months. They measure about 170 meters in length, weigh nearly 19,000 tons submerged, and carry a crew of around 159 sailors.

In addition to the SSBNs, the U.S. Navy has four other Ohio-class submarines that were converted into guided-missile submarines (SSGNs). These carry up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, which are conventionally armed and have a range of 1,000 miles. SSGNs are also capable of deploying special operations forces, using modified missile tubes as lockout chambers.

The Navy also operates dozens of fast-attack submarines, including the Virginia, Los Angeles, and Seawolf classes. While these do not carry nuclear missiles, they are equipped with Tomahawk missiles and are used to track enemy submarines, conduct intelligence missions, and strike land targets.

The Pentagon has not officially confirmed Trump’s claim or the identities of the submarines, as submarine deployments are typically highly classified for strategic and security reasons. However, U.S. officials in the past have occasionally disclosed submarine activity as a show of force or deterrence in sensitive regions.

This development comes at a time of growing geopolitical tension, particularly in light of ongoing U.S.-Russia friction over Ukraine and global nuclear posturing. While Trump is no longer in office, his comments and claims still attract global attention, especially when they involve military action or national security. Whether the Biden administration will confirm or respond to Trump’s statement remains unclear.