The U.S. Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs recently oversaw a missile test flight of an unarmed life-extended Trident II (D5LE) missile from the USS Louisiana (SSBN-743), an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine.
These tests are not reactions to current global events, nor are they displays of power. They are planned well in advance.
This test, which took place on the Western Test Range off San Diego, California, was undertaken around 2:10 p.m. yesterday.
Director of Strategic Systems Programs, VADM Johnny Wolfe, Jr., was quoted by the U.S. Navy as saying. “The completion of DASO-32 marks an historic milestone in the life of the Trident II D5 weapons system. It provides the SSP team with a tangible reminder of the great responsibility before us.”
The recent test was a component of the Demonstration and Shakedown Operation, labeled DASO-32. This specific DASO is the concluding one for an Ohio-class SSBN post an Engineering Refuel Overhaul (ERO).
The main aim of a DASO is to assess the readiness of the SSBN’s strategic weapon system and its crew prior to its operational deployment.
These test launches, performed regularly, serve to evaluate and maintain the reliability and precision of the strategic weapon system.
It is essential to note that the missiles used during tests are not armed. The prime concern remains the safety of the public and the crew involved. The missile’s trajectory during this test remained entirely over the sea, ensuring no risk to any land areas.
America’s strategic nuclear deterrent Triad consists of sea-based, air, and land components. The sea-based leg, which the Trident II belongs to, constitutes about 70% of the U.S.’s deployed strategic nuclear deterrent.
“These tests are not reactions to current global events, nor are they displays of power. They are planned well in advance.”
You can say it (and you probably should), but it will always be used by uneducated people.
Absolutely correct Hermes, when I initially saw the headline I thought it might well be Vanguard (not sure if she has completed DASO yet), as she is/was due to conduct a serial as part of her re-certification after her prolonged refit(7 years!!!).
Probably cant come soon enough as she needs to get back in the programme soonest to take some of the pressure of Vigilant/Vengeance.
It’s always useful to remind certain parties that we have this, it’s works as advertised and yes, we have resolve to use it.
Deterrence is always preferable to war.
“Deterrence is always preferable to war.”
Si vis pacem para bellum
Literally.
Useful test. It might not be a display of power but it does send a clear message to Mad Vlad, we are armed. Use any nuclear weapon against us or NATO and you will reap what you sow.
Never has our nuclear deterrent been more needed then now.
You are correct about MAD it’s mutual assured destruction. This has been the cornerstone of NATO defence since the 50s.