US Navy's Virginia-class Submarines May Soon Carry Air Defense Missiles

The U.S. Navy is considering a significant expansion of submarine capabilities, potentially transforming Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines into underwater air defense platforms. The "Naval Modular Missile" (NMM) program includes an extended-range surface-to-air variant (ER-S) envisioned for integration with the Virginia Payload Module (VPM) on Block V Virginia-class submarines.

This initiative could grant U.S. submarines a crucial air defense role, allowing them to operate as stealthy interceptors of high-value aerial targets, such as early warning aircraft, even while submerged. The NMM family utilizes a common 10-inch diameter "terminal phase interceptor" adaptable with different boosters and launch tubes to create various missile versions, including long-range, extended-range, and medium-range variants.

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The Naval Modular Missile family uses a common 10-inch diameter "terminal phase interceptor," combined with different boosters and launch tubes, to derive long-range, extended-range, and medium-range versions.

While the precise range of the ER-S is yet to be disclosed, the U.S. Navy has indicated its hypersonic capability. A key feature is its ability to receive targeting information from external sources like Aegis ships, aircraft, and space-based sensors. This allows the submarine to act as a forward shooter in a network-centric warfare environment, intercepting enemy aircraft or missiles before they pose a threat to friendly forces.

Beyond countering anti-submarine aircraft and helicopters, these missile-equipped submarines could bolster the air defense of carrier strike groups. They might also covertly patrol near enemy territory to target high-value assets. The potential for the ER-S to intercept ballistic missiles or hypersonic weapons could further enhance its strategic value, enabling submarines to engage threats closer to their launch points. However, the Navy must weigh the tactical advantages against the risks of exposing expensive nuclear submarines to potential counterattacks, as launching large missiles creates detectable signatures. The NMM program is currently in early development, with the Navy requesting $311 million for fiscal year 2027.

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The ER-S itself can reach hypersonic speeds and can receive target information provided by Aegis ships, aircraft, and space sensors, allowing the submarine to act as a forward shooter in the kill chain.