As of February 2026, the global nuclear balance stands at a critical juncture, with the world’s largest nuclear powers holding thousands of warheads just as cornerstone arms-control agreements move towards expiration.

When you look at a world map of naval power, almost all nations sail conventional warships and carriers. But only a tiny club of nations has mastered nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, massive ships that act as mobile airfields and can stay at sea for years without refuelling. What this really means is strategic reach and influence that most fleets can only dream of.

Submarines are a foundation of naval power, providing strategic deterrence, intelligence gathering, and offensive capabilities.