Local media in Gibraltar reported yesterday that the American nuclear submarine USS Alaska passed through the Strait of Gibraltar heading into the Mediterranean Sea.
The submarine is considered one of the most important assets in America’s nuclear deterrence system and is believed to be part of the US “second-strike” capability — the strategic force designed to ensure a devastating nuclear response even after a surprise attack.
According to various public reports, the USS Alaska can carry between 14 and 20 intercontinental ballistic missiles armed with nuclear warheads.
The appearance of such a submarine above the water is considered highly unusual, and civilians reportedly documented the vessel as it surfaced while crossing Gibraltar.