Military submarines typically can dive between about 300 meters and 900 meters based on known data, but exact maximum depths are often classified. Some examples:
- U.S. Los Angeles-class submarines have test depths around 450 meters, with maximum depths estimated 675–900 meters.
- Russian Akula-class subs reach depths of 1,200–1,300 meters.
- Virginia-class subs may go between 500 meters test depth and possibly up to 800–900 meters.
- Other classes like Ohio, Jin-class, and Arihant-class generally operate within 300 to 500+ meters.
Specialized submersibles for deep ocean exploration, like the Trieste and Deepsea Challenger, have reached depths of about 11,000 meters, much deeper than military subs, which focus on stealth and tactical capabilities rather than extreme depths. The main limiting factor for submarines is hull strength to withstand pressure, with military subs built from high-strength steel or titanium alloys. The exact "crush depth" beyond which a submarine's hull would collapse is generally classified information for military vessels.
