Why did the USS Thresher sink?
On April 10, 1963, USS Thresher (SSN-593) was conducting deep-diving tests east of Cape Cod when disaster struck. Communication with the submarine was suddenly lost, and all 129 sailors, officers, and civilian technicians aboard perished.
The tragedy remains one of the most significant events in submarine history. Investigations led to the creation of the Navy’s SUBSAFE program, a rigorous safety system designed to prevent similar disasters. Many historians believe SUBSAFE has saved countless lives since its implementation.
Today, the story of Thresher serves as both a memorial to those lost and a reminder of the risks taken by submariners in service to their country.
Watch the documentary below from Empty Berth for a detailed look at the events surrounding the loss of USS Thresher.