This thesis analyzes the current status of the Russian Federation's ballistic missile submarine force. It reviews the history of the ballistic missile submarine force, its current status, and the implementation of plans currently in progress and as well as the advantages and disadvantages of maintaining a ballistic missile submarine force. This thesis also assesses the other two legs of the nuclear triad - the intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and long range bomber aircraft. The status of these two forces and their operational advantages and disadvantages are compared with those of the ballistic missile submarine force. Also examined are the financial and political factors that may affect the prospects of the ballistic missile submarine force. This includes arms control treaties that may affect the force structure. Current and prospective energy prices suggest that the economy of the Russian Federation will be able to provide long term financing for the ballistic missile submarine force and Moscow's other strategic nuclear forces. This thesis concludes that the ballistic missile submarine force is a vital part of the Russian Federation's nuclear triad and will probably be maintained over the next 15 years and beyond.

Subjects: Nuclear submarines; Russia (Federation); History; Fleet ballistic missile weapons systems; Intercontinental ballistic missiles; Nuclear weapons