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Originally Posted by Kurushio
1) What is the thinking behind spending all this money on high-tec, stealthy subs. The US Airforce can't justify spending $2 billion on a B2 stealth bomber, but the Navy can on a sub? Why? Just who exactly is the enemy this sub is meant to counter?
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The United States of America's Gross National Product and Purchasing power as compared to the rest of the world.
http://www.scaruffi.com/politics/gnp.html
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2) How does the Virginia class compare to the Seawolf?
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It was designed to be just as quiet, but cheaper. To obtain a cheaper cost it uses 1) cheaper hull materials = less diving depth 2) smaller power plant = less top speed 3) smaller hull = less weapons capacity
There are some other differences. The VA has 4 torpedo tubes and 12 Verticle launch tubs just like the LA, whereas the SW has only 8 torpedo tubes of slightly larger diameter. The VA is a bit more advanced when it comes to computerized systems and electronics.
hope that answers some questions.