Navigating the Arctic Inside a Navy Submarine

The U.S. Navy’s submarine force is undergoing intense training in the Arctic as Russia expands its military operations in the region. The sailors aboard the nuclear-powered submarines are sharpening their combat skills at the edge of the world, facing challenges unique to the icy waters.

Operating a submarine in the Arctic is no easy task. The crew must navigate through shallow waters, dodging ice keels and avoiding the risk of small electrical fires caused by water condensation against the hull. The small space inside the submarine poses additional challenges, with sailors sharing beds and meticulously planning menus for the duration of their underwater mission.

Despite the hardships, the crew members find ways to pass the time, playing cribbage and watching downloaded TV shows and movies. However, communication with the outside world is limited, and crucial military decisions are made entirely on the boat.

Commander Brown leads an all-male crew aboard the U.S.S. Hampton, which recently surfaced at the North Pole after completing a three-week mission in the Beaufort Sea. The goal of the mission is twofold: geopolitical and training the next generation of sailors to operate under the ice.

As the submariners prepare to continue their voyage under the icy sea, they do so in silence, carrying out classified missions that play a crucial role in national security. The challenges they face in the Arctic are a testament to their dedication and skill as they navigate the unforgiving waters at the edge of the world.