Lafayette-class (SSBN-616)

The Lafayette class was a series of nine nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines built for the United States Navy between 1961 and 1964. An evolutionary development of the preceding Ethan Allen class, the design featured a larger hull and various technical improvements. The class was part of the "41 for Freedom" group of submarines that served as the naval component of the United States nuclear deterrent force through the late 1980s.

Design modifications included the integration of larger missile tubes to accommodate updated weapons systems. The first eight vessels initially carried Polaris A-2 missiles and were later refitted with the Polaris A-3. The final boat, USS Daniel Webster, was equipped with the A-3 from its commissioning. In the mid-1970s, the entire class underwent refits to carry the Poseidon C3 missile, taking advantage of the larger tube diameter. Unlike the similar James Madison and Benjamin Franklin classes, the Lafayette class was not updated to carry Trident I missiles. To improve firing efficiency, the vessels utilized a hovering system to manage trim during missile launches, which increased the potential rate of fire. USS Daniel Webster was originally constructed with experimental diving planes mounted on a sail near the bow to minimize porpoising. These were replaced with standard fairwater planes during a mid-1970s overhaul because the initial configuration reduced hydrodynamic efficiency.

The class entered commission between 1963 and 1964. The submarines remained in active service until the late 1980s and early 1990s. Decommissioning took place between 1986 and 1992, influenced by the requirements of the SALT II treaty, the introduction of Ohio-class submarines, and the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Eight of the vessels were processed through the Ship-Submarine Recycling Program. USS Daniel Webster was converted into a Moored Training Ship (MTS-626) following its removal from active service, where it was utilized for nuclear power training in Charleston, South Carolina, until its scheduled inactivation.