Columbia (SSBN-826), the first of a new class of U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarines to replace the
Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines now in service. The program calls for twelve of the new class of boats, which the Navy has identified as a top priority.
History
Research and development work on the new class of SSBNs has been underway for several years, while advanced procurement (AP) funding for the lead vessel began in fiscal year 2017 (FY17). According to the December 22, 2020 updated Congressional Research Service (CRS) report, Navy Columbia (SSBN-826) Class Ballistic Missile Submarine Program: Background and Issues for Congress, the Navy’s proposed FY2021 budget requests