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The US Navy’s USS Maine (SSBN-741), an Ohio Class ballistic missile submarine, successfully conducted a scheduled, one-missile test flight of an unarmed life-extended Trident II (D5LE) missile.
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The test, conducted at the Western Test Range off the coast of San Diego, California, was part of a Demonstration and Shakedown Operation, designated DASO-30.
The primary objective of a DASO is to evaluate and demonstrate the readiness of the SSBN’s strategic weapon system and crew before operational deployment following the submarine’s engineered refuelling overhaul.
James Geurts, assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acquisition, who embarked USS Maine for the launch, said, "The professional performance by the crew of the USS Maine today demonstrated they are ready to stand the watch for our nation's strategic deterrence mission."
This launch marks 177 successful missile launches of the Trident II (D5 & D5LE) strategic weapon system (SWS).
"They, and the acquisition and sustainment teams that support them, showed the teamwork, commitment, and attention to detail needed to continue to provide the undersea strategic deterrence for our nation, just as the Navy has done uninterrupted for the last 60 years," Geurts added.
The Trident strategic weapon system is highly accurate and reliable. The Trident II (D5) missiles recently underwent a life extension program to address potential impacts from ageing and obsolescence.
The life-extended missiles – Trident II (D5LE) – are now being deployed to the fleet and will serve for the remaining service life of US Ohio Class and UK Vanguard Class SSBNs, and as the initial load out for the US Columbia Class and UK Dreadnought Class SSBNs.
Vice Admiral Johnny Wolfe, director of the US Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs, expanded on the importance of the the missiles in the US strategic arsenal, "Today’s test demonstrates the continued reliability of our sea-based nuclear deterrent, which is made possible by our sailors, civilians and industry partners who bring expertise and dedication to the mission that is unmatched by any other country.
"These same teams are now developing the next generation of the Trident strategic weapon system, which will extend our sea-based deterrent for the next 40 years."
The US Navy’s last DASO was in May 2019 off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, from USS Rhode Island (SSBN-740).
The Navy’s most recent flight test – a Commander’s Evaluation Test – was a series of four launches from USS Nebraska (SSBN-739) in September 2019 off the coast of southern California. All five of these 2019 flight tests were of the life-extended Trident II (D5LE).
Flight test missiles are not armed. Safety of the public and the crew conducting the mission is paramount. This launch was conducted from sea, the missile flew over the sea, and landed in the sea. At no time did the missile fly over land.
The missile test was not conducted in response to any ongoing world events or as a demonstration of power. Test launches – including DASOs – are scheduled years in advance.
A credible, effective nuclear deterrent is essential to our national security and the security of US allies. Deterrence remains a cornerstone of national security policy in the 21st century.
Strategic Systems Programs is the Navy command that provides cradle-to-grave life cycle support for the Navy's strategic weapon systems.
This includes training, systems, equipment, facilities and personnel responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM) D5LE SWS.
SLBMs are the sea-based leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent triad that also includes the US Air Force’s intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) and nuclear-capable bombers.
Each part of the triad provides unique capabilities and advantages.
The sea-based leg makes up the majority – approximately 70 per cent – of the US’ deployed strategic nuclear deterrent triad. The SLBM is the most survivable leg of the triad, provides a persistent presence, and allows for flexible concepts of operations.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
