The evolution and potential of the Arctic submarine

The polar regions are now of considerable importance to the world's nations from both scientific and commercial viewpoints. Scientifically because of the many keys which its ocean depths hold for the understanding of many unsolved mysteries, such as its influence on the world's climate; commercially, because within its harsh regions lie most of the world's undeveloped resources. This paper will trace the evolution of the Arctic submarine from the mid-1600s to the development of the first true Arctic submarine, the nuclear-powered USS NAUTILUS in the mid-twentieth century. The voyages of exploration which followed will be highlighted, and the paper will close with a discussion of the Arctic submarine's scientific and commercial capabilities and potential for the future.