350-038 USS GROWLER SSG-577

The USS Growler (SSG-577) was an American classic-propelled submarine carrying a cruise missile (SSG). The keel for this unit was laid in February 1955, the launch took place in April 1958, and entry into service with the US Navy - in the summer of the same year. At the time of launching, the ship was 96.7 meters long and 8.2 meters wide, with an underwater displacement of approximately 3,500 tons. The maximum underwater speed did not exceed 12 knots. The armament consisted of 4 Regulus I or 2 Regulus II missiles and 6 bow 553 mm torpedo tubes with 16 torpedoes in reserve. The USS Growler (SSG-577) was one of two Grayback-class submarines, which in turn were modernized Tang-class units. Grayback-class units were originally designed and built to carry Regulus cruise missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The USS Growler (SSG-577) was built at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. She was one of the first submarines in the US Navy to use HY-80 steel for the construction of the hull. In the first period of service, he played quite a role in the implementation of the nuclear deterrent function by the US Navy. However, the fact that the SSBN type ships entered service, as well as the limited performance of the Regulus missiles, led to the fact that the USS Growler (SSG-577) was withdrawn from the line in 1964 (6 years after entering service!). Currently, it can be admired as a museum ship in New York.