Ep 3. U.S.S. Kentucky

The episode titled U.S.S. Kentucky is the third episode of the third season of the documentary series Mighty Ships. This episode features one of the most advanced and powerful vessels in the United States Navy, the Ohio-class nuclear-powered submarine, U.S.S. Kentucky.

The U.S.S. Kentucky is a ballistic missile submarine designed to carry nuclear weapons deep into enemy territories. The vessel measures over 560 feet long and 42 feet wide, with a displacement of about 18,750 tons. Its nuclear power plant propels the boat silently and tirelessly through the ocean depths, allowing it to stay submerged for months at a time.

The episode begins with a brief history of the U.S. Navy's submarine force and its importance in the country's defense strategy. It also highlights the rigorous training program that every submariner must go through before being assigned to a submarine, emphasizing the physical and psychological challenges that sailors face while serving in such a confined and isolated environment.

The show then introduces the viewer to the crew of the U.S.S. Kentucky, a group of highly skilled and dedicated sailors led by Captain Brian Freck, who has over 28 years of experience in the submarine force. The crew's mission is to conduct a routine patrol of the Pacific Ocean, maintaining a constant presence in the region to deter potential threats and to provide national defense.

The U.S.S. Kentucky's operational capabilities are then demonstrated as it dives to test its systems and procedures, including its ability to launch a ballistic missile. The show uses state-of-the-art CGI graphics to illustrate how the submarine uses its advanced propulsion system to move silently through the ocean, while also depicting the intricate process of launching a missile from the boat's vertical launch tubes.

Throughout the episode, the challenges and risks associated with operating a submarine are also highlighted. The crew must constantly monitor the U.S.S. Kentucky's systems and perform routine maintenance to ensure its safety and reliability. They also have to deal with the psychological stress of being isolated from the outside world for an extended period of time, as well as the physical strain of working in tight quarters and coping with the challenges of life underwater.

In addition to providing an inside look at the U.S. Navy's submarine force, the episode also highlights the global role of the U.S.S. Kentucky and its fellow Ohio-class submarines. These vessels are part of the U.S. nuclear triad, which also includes nuclear-capable bombers and land-based missiles. Together, they provide a deterrence against potential adversaries and help maintain peace and stability in the world.

Overall, Mighty Ships season 3 episode 3 - U.S.S. Kentucky is an informative and engaging exploration of one of the most advanced and powerful submarines in the world. The episode offers insight into the complex realities of life on a submarine, and provides a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of naval technology and its role in national defense.