The Soviet submarine K-222, scrapped in 2010, held the record as the fastest nuclear sub. It boasted a hull of titanium, something U.S. subs aren't constructed from and could reach a maximum speed ...

Submarine builder Newport News Shipyard began construction on it in 1977, and it was commissioned on April 24, 1981. The submarine joined the U.S. Pacific Fleet and served there throughout its career.

As such, when operating close to the surface, submarines typically move at a fraction of their top speed to maintain a stealth advantage – even more so when running silent.