U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671) | Shrader & Associates L.L.P.
Get in Touch Today

U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)

Over A Billion Recovered Nationwide

U.S.S. Narwhal SSN-671 (Nuclear Attack Submarine)

USS Narwhal was built by the Electric Boat Division in Groton, CT as a unique vessel, not a member of any class, and operated for over thirty years as a fast attack, anti-submarine warfare, and covert operations submarine. Unlike any other American submarine before or since, Narwhal offered more commodious living spaces for its crew and was one of the quietest American submarines ever built.

The US Navy has always maintained strict secrecy regarding its submarine operations and Narwhal’s history is no exception. The ship operated extensively under the polar ice throughout its career, deploying to waters off the northern Soviet ports to detect and track Soviet fleet operations. The cat and mouse game played throughout the 1960s and 1970s by the American and Russian submarine services remains largely classified, but Narwhal used its stealth and speed to contribute to the American ability to maintain a silent vigil on Soviet fleet operations during the Cold War.

During its career, Narwhal twice entered the shipyard for refueling of its nuclear reactor, and had one non-refueling overhaul in which its sonar and weapons capabilities were enhanced. For the remainder of its career it deployed on lengthy cruises to the Arctic, Mediterranean and Pacific waters.

In 1988, Narwhal was in Charleston for upkeep when that city was ravaged by Hurricane Hugo. Moored in the Cooper River, Narwhal was unable to get underway to escape the storm, as did most of the fleet stationed there. As the eye of the storm approached, the submarine was torn loose of its moorings, and despite efforts of its own crew and fleet tugs, was unable to be made secure. Narwhal submerged in the river, with only portions of its sail exposed, until the remainder of the storm passed, escaping serious damage.

By the 1990s, the second flight Los Angeles class and the emerging Seawolf and Virginia class submarines rendered Narwhal obsolete. The vessel was deactivated while remaining in commission, an unusual circumstance, and offered as a museum. Although plans were put forward for the submarine to be placed on display in Newport KY, across the river from Cincinnati, OH, the necessary funds were not forthcoming. The ship is scheduled to be scrapped.

Asbestos Exposure on USS Narwhal

Narwhal was a submarine that contained many innovative and unique designs, yet it also contained standard equipments used in the construction of all submarines at the time. Asbestos containing materials were used in many applications throughout the vessel, most frequently in insulation for piping systems. Piping systems for main and auxiliary seawater, chilled water, potable water, steam and coolant systems, and others ran throughout the ship, all wrapped with insulation manufactured from asbestos cloth. Although painted, much of the piping was located in hard to reach areas, and deterioration of the paint and the exposed asbestos was frequently undetected for lengthy periods.

Submarine operations required long periods of isolation and frequently periods where maintenance was deferred due to the need to maintain silence. During such periods, asbestos insulation that was exposed, or damaged due to maintenance on nearby equipment, released microscopic fibers into the atmosphere, where they could be freely dispersed throughout the enclosed submarine by the ships ventilation system. Thus lengthy and undetected exposure to asbestos in the air was unavoidable for members of the crew in any circumstances.

Contact Us Today

Request a Free Consultation

    $6,800,000
    Mesothelioma Lawsuit
    $4,650,084.52
    Mesothelioma Lawsuit

    We Take Our Clients’ Cases Personal

    Helping Victims of Mesothelioma Is Why We Do What We Do

    Your firm has made this stressful process easy and comfortable for me.

    “In this difficult time for me, everyone in your office has been helpful and supportive in ensuring that not only are our objectives with my case met but also that my personal needs are accommodated.”
    - Stephen

    I couldn’t have done it without you.

    “My case was complex, but you untangled the details of my asbestos exposure so that they were clear in court.”
    - Sam

    The professionals at Shrader & Associates did the work, hassle free, and ensured I was able to leave a legacy for my family.

    “I hesitated to file suit because I thought going to trial would be a hassle. The professionals at Shrader & Associates did the work, hassle-free, and ensured I was able to leave a legacy for my family ...”
    - Raymond

    Your team stood by me throughout the entire process.

    “The future looks a bit brighter for my family now.”
    - Frank

    Thanks to you, the grief of my loss would have been almost unbearable otherwise.

    “The wonderful things you have done for us, the things you have made possible for my family, the doors you have opened – I will always be grateful.”
    - Brian

    Experience You Can Count On

    Our Awards & Accolades

    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)
    U.S.S. Narwhal (SSN-671)

    The Right Team Makes a Difference

    Mesothelioma cases require technical knowledge and an understanding of complex laws. An attorney with experience trying these claims and substantial resources to leverage on your behalf is your best bet to having a strong case. We are nationally recognized for providing quality representation to mesothelioma patients and their families.

    Meet Our Attorney

    Choosing the Right Law Firm is an Important & Personal Decision

    Why Shrader & Associates?

    AWARD-WINNING

    Our skilled approach to the practice of law has resulted in top ratings & awards from renowned legal organizations.

    RESPECTED

    Our attorneys have been invited into some of the most prestigious and recognized professional associations in the U.S.

    RECOGNIZED

    We’ve been featured on local and national news programs for our legal knowledge and winning results.

    PROVEN

    To date, we’ve secured countless million-dollar results for clients located throughout the country.