60 Years Ago, a Submerged Submarine Circled the Globe for the First Time (2020)
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- Submarines historically spent most time on the surface, submerging only for attacks.
- Nuclear power allowed indefinite underwater operation, changing submarine design and capabilities.
- Operation Sandblast in 1960, led by USS Triton, demonstrated the first fully submerged circumnavigation of the globe.
- Nuclear submarines became faster, quieter, and more hydrodynamic with tuna-like hulls.
- USS Triton served briefly (11 years) before decommissioning, with its sail preserved in Benton, Washington.