The USS Alabama (SSBN-731) is an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine of the United States Navy. She is the sixth ship of the class, and the third U.S. Navy ship to be named after the state of Alabama.
Alabama's keel was laid down on October 27, 1980, by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics in Groton, Connecticut. She was launched on May 19, 1984, sponsored by Mrs. Barbara Dickinson, and commissioned on May 25, 1985, with Captain Michael J. Hill in command of the Blue Crew and Captain A.K. Thompson in command of the Gold Crew.
As a ballistic missile submarine, Alabama's primary mission is to serve as a strategic deterrent, carrying Trident II D5 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). These missiles are capable of delivering multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), each carrying a nuclear warhead. Alabama is designed to remain submerged for extended periods, operating silently and undetected to ensure the survivability of her nuclear payload.
Alabama has two alternating crews, a Blue Crew and a Gold Crew, allowing for continuous operation. Each crew is responsible for all aspects of the submarine's operation and maintenance during their assigned patrol.
The USS Alabama has undergone numerous refits and modernizations throughout her service life to ensure her continued effectiveness and readiness. These upgrades have included improvements to her sonar, navigation, and communications systems, as well as upgrades to the Trident II D5 missile system.
Alabama is homeported at Naval Base Kitsap, Bangor, Washington, as part of Submarine Group Nine. She continues to serve as a vital component of the United States' nuclear triad, contributing to the nation's strategic deterrence posture.