Introduction to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is a United States Navy base located in Camden County, Georgia, near the city of St. Marys. The base is the eastern port of the US Navy’s Atlantic Fleet and is home to Submarine Group 10 and Submarine Squadron 20. Kings Bay has a long history dating back to the 1970s and has since become a vital part of the US Navy’s submarine operations. Here are five key facts about Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay:
Location and History
The base is situated on a 16,000-acre site in southeastern Georgia, approximately 40 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida. Construction on the base began in 1978, and it was officially commissioned on July 1, 1982. The base was built to provide a strategic location for the US Navy’s submarine fleet, with access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Guantanamo Bay naval base in Cuba.
Submarine Operations
Kings Bay is home to 13 ballistic missile submarines and two guided-missile submarines, which are equipped with Trident II (D5) missiles. The base is also home to Submarine Squadron 20, which provides logistical and administrative support to the submarines based at Kings Bay. The submarines at Kings Bay play a critical role in the US Navy’s nuclear deterrence mission, providing a strategic defense capability for the United States and its allies.
Facilities and Infrastructure
The base has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support submarine operations, including: * Dry docks for submarine maintenance and repair * Piers for submarine berthing and loading * Warehouses for storing equipment and supplies * Barracks for housing personnel * Training facilities for submarine crew training The base also has a medical center, a commissary, and a post office to support the daily needs of personnel and their families.
Environmental Concerns
Kings Bay has faced environmental concerns in recent years, including water pollution and habitat destruction. The base has implemented measures to reduce its environmental impact, including wastewater treatment and habitat restoration programs. The US Navy has also established a Natural Resources Management program to protect and conserve the natural resources at Kings Bay.
Economic Impact
The base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with an estimated $1.2 billion in annual economic activity. The base employs over 10,000 personnel, including military, civilian, and contract workers, and supports a range of local businesses and industries. The base also contributes to the local tax base and supports community development initiatives.
📝 Note: The economic impact of Kings Bay is significant, and the base plays a vital role in supporting the local community.
Here is a table summarizing some key facts about Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay:
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Camden County, Georgia |
| Established | July 1, 1982 |
| Submarines | 13 ballistic missile submarines, 2 guided-missile submarines |
| Facilities | Dry docks, piers, warehouses, barracks, training facilities |
| Economic Impact | $1.2 billion in annual economic activity |
In summary, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is a vital part of the US Navy’s submarine operations, providing a strategic location for the Atlantic Fleet and supporting a range of submarines and personnel. The base has a significant economic impact on the local community and is committed to reducing its environmental impact.
What is the primary mission of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay?
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The primary mission of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is to provide a strategic location for the US Navy’s submarine fleet and to support the nuclear deterrence mission.
How many submarines are based at Kings Bay?
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There are 13 ballistic missile submarines and 2 guided-missile submarines based at Kings Bay.
What is the economic impact of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay?
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The economic impact of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is estimated to be $1.2 billion in annual economic activity, supporting over 10,000 personnel and contributing to the local tax base.
