Cold War US Navy USS WILLIAM H. BATES SSN-680 Submarine Patch

Description: This vintage USN machine-embroidered patch measures 3.2" by 3", used condition. Its motto is A SPIRIT UNQUELL'D. A valuable addition to your military memorabilia collection. USS William H. Bates (SSN-680) was a Sturgeon-class nuclear-powered attack submarine in the U.S. Navy. It was named in honor of Congressman William H. Bates, a strong advocate for nuclear-powered submarines. The vessel was part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet during the Cold War and played a key role in various operations, including reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and potentially engaging enemy submarines.Overview of USS William H. Bates (SSN-680):Class: Sturgeon-class submarineType: Nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN)Displacement:Surfaced: 3,640 tonsSubmerged: 4,640 tonsLength: 292 feet (89 meters)Beam: 31 feet (9.4 meters)Draft: 26 feet (7.9 meters)Laid Down: August 4, 1969 at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, CaliforniaLaunched: December 11, 1971Commissioned: May 5, 1973Decommissioned: February 11, 2000Capabilities: The USS William H. Bates was built for:Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): Designed to detect and engage enemy submarines, particularly Soviet ballistic missile submarines during the Cold War.Reconnaissance and Intelligence Gathering: The sub was equipped with advanced sonar and electronic equipment for monitoring enemy communications, movements, and naval activities.Strike Capabilities: Armed with torpedoes and submarine-launched missiles, it had the ability to engage surface ships and submarines as needed.Key Features of the Sturgeon-Class Submarines: Nuclear Propulsion:The SSN-680 was powered by a S5W nuclear reactor, allowing it to operate at high speeds and remain submerged for extended periods without needing to surface for air or refueling. Sonar and Sensor Systems:Equipped with BQQ-5 sonar, the submarine could detect and track enemy vessels from great distances. The sonar system was a vital component in anti-submarine warfare. Weapons Systems:The USS William H. Bates was armed with MK-48 torpedoes and had the capability to launch Harpoon anti-ship missiles. These weapons allowed it to take on both underwater and surface targets.Later, like many Sturgeon-class submarines, it could have been equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles for land strikes. Stealth Capabilities:The Sturgeon-class, including SSN-680, was designed to be relatively quiet, enhancing its ability to operate undetected in enemy waters. This made it a crucial asset for intelligence missions during the Cold War.Service History: Cold War Operations:Like other submarines in its class, the USS William H. Bates primarily engaged in Cold War patrols, tracking Soviet submarines and collecting intelligence. These missions were typically secretive, involving long, submerged patrols in areas of strategic interest, such as the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, or the Arctic. Surveillance and Reconnaissance:The submarine's advanced sensors and quiet nature made it an effective platform for gathering intelligence on enemy naval movements and capabilities. These reconnaissance missions were often in support of U.S. strategic interests or to prepare for potential conflicts. Training and Exercises:USS William H. Bates also participated in numerous naval exercises with U.S. and allied forces, honing its crew’s skills in anti-submarine warfare and other naval tactics.Decommissioning and Fate: The USS William H. Bates (SSN-680) was decommissioned on February 11, 2000, after nearly 27 years of service. Following decommissioning, the submarine underwent the Navy’s Ship-Submarine Recycling Program (SRP), where it was safely dismantled and recycled.Legacy: The USS William H. Bates represents a key part of the U.S. Navy’s Cold War submarine fleet. Sturgeon-class submarines like the Bates played a vital role in maintaining the U.S. Navy’s ability to project power underwater, engage enemy submarines, and gather crucial intelligence during a tense period of global geopolitics. The legacy of the Bates and her crew is a testament to the importance of submarine warfare in maintaining naval superiority during the Cold War era. Worldwide combined shipment is welcome to save you money. Please visit my EAZYCOLLECTIBLES Store for more great war items. Froo www.froo.com | Froo Cross Sell, Free Cross Sell, Cross promote, eBay Marketing, eBay listing Apps, eBay Apps, eBay Application

Price: 11.99 USD

Location: Westminster, California

End Time: 2024-12-16T00:20:26.000Z

Shipping Cost: 1 USD