The New London Naval Base, also known as the Naval Submarine Base New London, is a United States Navy base located in Groton, Connecticut. Established in 1868, it is one of the oldest naval bases in the country and has played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy's submarine force. The base is situated on the eastern bank of the Thames River, approximately 2.5 miles north of the city of Groton, and covers an area of approximately 680 acres.
Throughout its history, the New London Naval Base has undergone several transformations, driven by advances in technology and changes in the nation's defense strategies. Initially, the base was used as a storage facility for naval ships and equipment. However, with the advent of submarine warfare during World War I, the base began to take on a more prominent role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines. The base's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its access to the Thames River made it an ideal location for submarine operations.
Key Points
- The New London Naval Base is one of the oldest naval bases in the United States, established in 1868.
- The base is home to the U.S. Navy's submarine force and has played a significant role in the development of submarine warfare.
- The base is located in Groton, Connecticut, and covers an area of approximately 680 acres.
- The base has undergone several transformations throughout its history, driven by advances in technology and changes in the nation's defense strategies.
- The base is home to several commands, including Submarine Group Two, the Naval Submarine School, and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.
History of the New London Naval Base
The history of the New London Naval Base dates back to the late 19th century, when the U.S. Navy began to recognize the importance of the Thames River as a strategic location for naval operations. In 1868, the Navy purchased a 112-acre site on the eastern bank of the river, which would eventually become the New London Naval Base. Initially, the base was used as a storage facility for naval ships and equipment, but with the advent of submarine warfare during World War I, the base began to take on a more prominent role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines.
World War I and the Interwar Period
During World War I, the New London Naval Base played a significant role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines. The base was used as a training facility for submarine crews, and several submarines were based there, including the USS N-1, the USS N-2, and the USS N-3. In the interwar period, the base continued to grow and expand, with the addition of new facilities, including a submarine dry dock and a torpedo factory.
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1868 | Establishment of the New London Naval Base | The U.S. Navy purchases a 112-acre site on the eastern bank of the Thames River. |
| 1917 | World War I | The base is used as a training facility for submarine crews and as a base for several submarines. |
| 1920s | Interwar Period | The base continues to grow and expand, with the addition of new facilities, including a submarine dry dock and a torpedo factory. |
| 1941 | World War II | The base plays a significant role in the war effort, with several submarines based there and used for patrols and attacks on enemy ships. |
Current Operations and Commands
Today, the New London Naval Base is home to several commands, including Submarine Group Two, the Naval Submarine School, and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. The base is also home to several submarine squadrons, including Submarine Squadron 2, Submarine Squadron 4, and Submarine Development Squadron 5. The base’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its access to the Thames River make it an ideal location for submarine operations, and it continues to play a significant role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines.
Submarine Group Two
Submarine Group Two is one of the several commands based at the New London Naval Base. The group is responsible for the operation and maintenance of several submarines, including the USS Virginia and the USS California. The group is also responsible for the training and deployment of submarine crews, and it works closely with other commands, including the Naval Submarine School and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.
In conclusion, the New London Naval Base has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines. The base's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its access to the Thames River make it an ideal location for submarine operations, and it continues to be an important part of the U.S. Navy's submarine force.
What is the history of the New London Naval Base?
+The New London Naval Base was established in 1868 and has a rich history, having played a significant role in the development and deployment of U.S. submarines.
What commands are based at the New London Naval Base?
+The New London Naval Base is home to several commands, including Submarine Group Two, the Naval Submarine School, and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.
What is the significance of the New London Naval Base?
+The New London Naval Base is significant because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its access to the Thames River, making it an ideal location for submarine operations.
