Introduction to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, also known as the Portsmouth Navy Yard, is a United States Navy shipyard located in Kittery, Maine, on the Piscataqua River, directly across from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The shipyard has a rich military history dating back to the early 19th century, and it has played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet.
Early History (1800-1850)
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard was established in 1800 as a small shipyard with a handful of buildings and a workforce of about 100 laborers. The shipyard’s primary function was to build and repair ships for the U.S. Navy. During the War of 1812, the shipyard played a crucial role in the construction of several warships, including the USS Washington, a 74-gun ship of the line.
📝 Note: The shipyard's location on the Piscataqua River provided access to the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal location for shipbuilding and repair.
The Age of Steam (1850-1900)
The mid-19th century saw significant changes in shipbuilding technology, with the introduction of steam power and iron-hulled ships. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard adapted to these changes, and by the late 1800s, it had become one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the country. During the American Civil War, the shipyard built several ironclad warships, including the USS Kearsarge, which sank the Confederate raider CSS Alabama.
Submarine Development (1900-1945)
The early 20th century saw the development of submarines as a major component of naval warfare. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet, with the construction of several submarine classes, including the R-class, S-class, and Tambor-class submarines. During World War II, the shipyard built over 70 submarines, including the USS Squalus, which was the first submarine to be built with a snorkel system.
Cold War Era (1945-1990)
The Cold War saw a significant increase in submarine production at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, with the construction of several nuclear-powered submarine classes, including the Thresher-class and Sturgeon-class submarines. The shipyard also developed advanced submarine technologies, including the first nuclear-powered attack submarine, the USS Nautilus.
Modern Era (1990-Present)
Today, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the country, employing over 6,000 workers. The shipyard continues to play a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet, with the construction of several advanced submarine classes, including the Virginia-class and Los Angeles-class submarines.
| Ship Class | Description | Production Years |
|---|---|---|
| R-class submarines | Conventional attack submarines | 1918-1925 |
| S-class submarines | Conventional attack submarines | 1918-1925 |
| Tambor-class submarines | Conventional attack submarines | 1939-1942 |
| Thresher-class submarines | Nuclear-powered attack submarines | 1958-1968 |
| Sturgeon-class submarines | Nuclear-powered attack submarines | 1963-1975 |
| Virginia-class submarines | Nuclear-powered attack submarines | 1999-present |
| Los Angeles-class submarines | Nuclear-powered attack submarines | 1976-1996 |
Conclusion
The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has a rich military history spanning over two centuries. From its early days as a small shipyard to its current status as one of the largest and most advanced shipyards in the country, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet. As the U.S. Navy continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and threats, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard remains a vital component of the country’s national defense.
What is the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
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The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a United States Navy shipyard located in Kittery, Maine, on the Piscataqua River, directly across from Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
What is the history of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
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The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard was established in 1800 and has played a significant role in the development of the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet, with the construction of several submarine classes and the development of advanced submarine technologies.
What types of submarines have been built at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
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The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has built several types of submarines, including conventional attack submarines, nuclear-powered attack submarines, and ballistic missile submarines.
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