The U.S. Navy conducted four scheduled missile tests of a nuclear-capable weapon system off the coast of Florida from September 17 to September 21, 2023. The tests involved unarmed Trident II D5 Life Extension missiles launched from an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine as part of a reliability testing program.
According to a Navy release, “The missile tests were not conducted in response to any ongoing world events.” One launch, visible from Puerto Rico, illuminated the night sky, with photos shared by the Navy showcasing this event. This series of tests marked the 197th successful flight test of the Trident II D5 strategic weapons system.
The missiles were fired from a submerged submarine and landed in the Atlantic Ocean. Aviation personnel were notified of a no-fly zone, and maritime traffic was instructed to avoid the area during the test.
Originally developed in the 1980s, the Trident II D5 missiles underwent a life-extension refresh in 2017 to extend their operational lifespan into the 2040s. Vice Adm. Johnny R. Wolfe, director of the Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs, stated, “Our Nation’s submarine launched ballistic missile system has been a critical component of our national security since the 1960s, and these launches continue to demonstrate the credibility and reliability of our strategic deterrence capabilities.”
While there are 14 Ohio-class submarines that can carry the Trident II D5 missiles, the specific submarine used for these tests has not been disclosed. The Trident D5 missile can achieve a minimum range of 2,000 kilometers and a maximum range of 12,000 kilometers, according to the Missile Defense Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
The missile can be equipped with either a W76 100-kiloton or a W88 475-kiloton warhead and can carry a payload of up to 2,800 kilograms. Both the United States and the United Kingdom utilize this missile on their Ohio-class and Vanguard-class nuclear submarines. Furthermore, it is noted as the first U.S. submarine-based missile capable of destroying hardened targets.
Riley Ceder is a reporter at Military Times, focused on breaking news, criminal justice, investigations, and cyber issues. He has previously contributed to an investigative report at The Washington Post.
