Player Embed Code: Download Embed Share Nuclear Deterrence - From Sea Defense.gov April 15, 2019 | 1:08 Ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as an undetectable launch platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. These submarines are designed for stealth and are on constant patrol, with enough firepower on board to make just one SSBN the sixth most powerful nuclear power in the world.