While under construction as a diesel powered attack submarine, USS Growler was converted to carry nuclear guided missiles of the short-lived Regulus Program. Her career was brief but significant, as she participated in the initial strategic nuclear deterrent patrols made by the United States submarine force. Growler is the sole survivor of the Navy's fleet of pioneering strategic missile diesel powered submarines. As such, she is the only American nuclear missile submarine on display. All of her successors are regulated by treaty.
Destined to be sunk as a target, Growler was saved at the last minute by the Intrepid Museum. She is maintained in her original operational appearance, except for access modifications and air conditioning.
The Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship is docked just across the USS Growler at Pier 88 in New York City Port.
Class: Grayback/Regulus II Submarine
Launched: April 5, 1958
At: Portsmouth Navy Yard, Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Commissioned: August 30, 1958
Length: 317 feet, 7 inches
Beam: 27 feet, 2 inches
Draft: 19 feet (surface trim)
Displacement: 2,768 tons (surfaced)
Armament: Regulus I and II missiles
Address:
Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum
Pier 86
West 46th Street & 12th Avenue
New York, New York 10036-4103
(212) 245-0072
Fax: (212) 245-7289
