⚓ SSN-571 — Nautilus SSN-571
USS Nautilus — Asbestos Exposure
USS Nautilus (SSN-571) was the world's first nuclear-powered submarine. On January 17, 1955, she radioed the historic message: 'Underway on nuclear power.' On August 3, 1958, she became the first vessel to complete a submerged transit of the North Pole, opening the era of under-ice nuclear submarine operations. She is preserved at the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, Connecticut.
Service History
Nautilus was commissioned January 17, 1955 — five years before her class was formally defined. Powered by the S2W pressurized water reactor, she demonstrated capabilities no conventional submarine could match: unlimited underwater endurance, high submerged speed, and the ability to operate without surfacing for weeks. On August 3, 1958, she completed Operation Sunshine — the first submerged transit of the Arctic Ocean and the geographic North Pole. This achievement demonstrated that nuclear submarines could threaten the Soviet Union from under the Arctic ice cap, transforming Cold War strategy. Decommissioned in 1980, she was designated a National Historic Landmark and is now the centerpiece of the Submarine Force Museum at Groton.
Asbestos Exposure Aboard USS Nautilus
Nautilus was built at Electric Boat — the primary U.S. submarine builder — during the transition era when asbestos insulation was still standard in submarine construction. Her engineering spaces, including the steam systems driven by reactor heat, used asbestos insulation on steam lines, valves, and auxiliary equipment. Submarine service presented unique asbestos exposure risks: submerged operations meant no ventilation, so disturbed asbestos fibers accumulated in the sealed pressure hull rather than dispersing. Machinist's Mates and Electrician's Mates who served aboard Nautilus in engineering specialties faced documented asbestos exposure.
For a full list of asbestos locations and at-risk ratings for the Nautilus SSN-571, see the Nautilus SSN-571 class page.
VA Benefits & Legal Options
Veterans who served in engineering ratings aboard USS Nautilus and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, pleural plaques, or asbestos-related lung cancer may be eligible for:
- VA disability compensation — Monthly benefit. Requires a diagnosis, evidence of shipboard service, and a nexus between the two. No specific product identification required.
- Asbestos trust fund claims — Lump-sum payments from manufacturers' bankruptcy trusts. Requires identifying specific products used aboard. Multiple trusts may apply.
These two paths are not mutually exclusive. Many veterans pursue both.
Full claim guidance for Attack Submarines › Free Legal Review ›
Asbestos.cam is an informational resource, not a law firm. The above is general information, not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did nuclear submarines use asbestos insulation?
Yes — especially early nuclear submarines like Nautilus. The reactor generates steam that drives turbines, and this steam system required asbestos-insulated pipes, valves, and fittings just like conventional steam-propulsion ships. The unique hazard on submarines was the enclosed environment: submerged operations meant no ventilation, so fiber concentrations built up when insulation was disturbed.
Is Nautilus open to visitors at Groton?
Yes. Historic Ship Nautilus is the centerpiece of the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, Connecticut, operated by the U.S. Navy. Visitors can tour Nautilus's interior, including her control room, torpedo room, and crew spaces. The museum also features exhibits on submarine history and the Cold War.
Did You Serve Aboard USS Nautilus?
If you or a family member served aboard USS Nautilus, you may have been exposed to asbestos. Sharing your service information is completely voluntary and may help build the historical record of shipboard exposure — information that can be valuable in VA disability and asbestos trust fund claims.
What we do with your information: Your submission goes into a private moderation queue. We will never publish your name, contact details, or diagnosis information publicly. The only information that may appear publicly is an anonymized count of verified veterans who have reported serving on this ship. We will not sell, rent, or share your information with third parties except as necessary to respond to your specific request. You may request deletion of your information at any time.
To request that your information be removed: Data Removal Request ›