Seawolf-Class Submarine – Cost: $3.5 Billion

The Seawolf-class submarine was made at the tail-end of the Cold War as a new and improved version of the Los Angeles-class submarines. Thus, it was designed with features like speeds of up to 35 knots and endure icy environments. Unfortunately, the expensive cost of the vessel led the United States Navy to switch plans.

To not break the bank, they opted for the more cost-effective Virginia-class submarines, which we’ve previously discussed. Of the original 29 vessels that were planned, only three Seawolf-class submarines were launched. Those would probably be in service for a long time, though, as the vessels were designed to accommodate updates.