Why Was the USS Scorpion Assigned to the US Atlantic Fleet?
Why Was the USS Scorpion Assigned to the US Atlantic Fleet?
The USS Scorpion, SSN 589, was an important component of the US Navy's submarine fleet, known for its role in international naval operations and strategic missions. It's crucial to understand why this submarine was assigned to the US Atlantic Fleet, as well as the importance of its home base in Norfolk, Virginia. This article explores the historical context and strategic reasons behind this fleet assignment.
Overview of the USS Scorpion and the US Atlantic Fleet
The USS Scorpion was a Los Angeles-class submarine, launched in 1967 and commissioned the following year. Its primary mission was to maintain a strong, capable submarine force in the Atlantic Ocean and its surrounding regions. The US Atlantic Fleet, based primarily on the East Coast of the United States, encompasses the East Coast and the western half of the Atlantic Ocean, extending to Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. The Scorpion's home base in Norfolk, Virginia, played a significant role in its operations and readiness.
The Home Base of the USS Scorpion: Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, Virginia, is a strategic military hub and a major port city. As the home base of the Navy's largest maritime fleet, it serves as a logistical and maintenance hub for submarines and surface ships. The presence of the USS Scorpion in Norfolk allowed it to benefit from the resources and support infrastructure available at this location, essential for maintaining its readiness and capabilities.
Control and Command: ComSubLant or Submarines Atlantic
The USS Scorpion, being part of the Atlantic Fleet, was subordinated to Commander Submarines Atlantic (ComSubLant), also known as Submarines Atlantic. ComSubLant is responsible for planning, training, and conducting operations for all US Navy submarines in the Atlantic. This hierarchical structure ensures that the Scorpion received the necessary resources and directives to carry out its mission effectively.
Rotation and Deployment: The US Sixth Fleet
One of the key operational phases for Atlantic Fleet ships and submarines is their rotation into the Mediterranean Sea. As part of the US Sixth Fleet, the USS Scorpion could engage in a variety of missions, from exercises and training to direct intervention in regional conflicts. The Sixth Fleet's area of responsibility includes the entire Mediterranean, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the northern coast of Africa.
Conclusion: The Strategic Importance of the USS Scorpion in the Atlantic Fleet
The assignment of the USS Scorpion to the US Atlantic Fleet was not merely a logistical decision but a strategic one. The submarine's home base in Norfolk, its control under ComSubLant, and its ability to join the operations of the Sixth Fleet all contributed to its effectiveness in fulfilling the demands of international naval operations. Understanding these aspects helps to appreciate the importance of maintaining a strong and versatile submarine force in the Atlantic region.