The USS Thresher was an impressive technological achievement, similar to other advanced submarines of its time. It was specifically designed for naval pursuits and had a sleek design to enhance its agility and maneuverability underwater. Armed with weapons like the ASROC, it had the capability to engage various types of targets. In April 1961, the Thresher began its meticulous trial process at Maine’s Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

Tragically, the very nuclear power that propelled the formidable Thresher became a contributing factor in its demise. Despite its technological advancements, the submarine was built to explore unprecedented depths in the ocean, depths that the U.S. Navy had not ventured into before. It was during a deep sea trial to showcase this capability that the Thresher was lost.

On the morning of April 10, 1963, the Thresher was conducting deep dives, aiming to reach its estimated maximum depth of 1,300 feet. It maintained regular communication with the nearby USS Skylark, its designated contact during this period. However, at approximately 9:12 am, the last communication was received, indicating an issue aboard the Thresher.

It is believed that water entered the submarine through insecure joints, causing the reactor and other systems to shut down. As a result, the Thresher continued to descend uncontrollably until it succumbed to the immense pressure of the deep waters and imploded.