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The primary advantage of nuclear submarines lies in their ability to stay underwater for prolonged periods—often upwards of six months—making them formidable tools for strategic deterrence and clandestine operations. They are less affected by concerns about fuel and resupply, thereby enhancing national security capabilities, especially in contested regions.
A Rare Club of Nuclear Submarine Operators
As of today, only a select few nations operate nuclear submarines, with the United States being the most prominent. Australia recently signed on to develop its own nuclear submarine fleet with American assistance, motivated largely by geographic isolation and regional security considerations. For Australia, these vessels serve as a potent shield against various threats in the Indo-Pacific.