US Navy Successfully Tests Trident II D5 Missiles Off Florida Coast

FLORIDA — The US Navy conducted four scheduled test launches of unarmed Trident II D5 Life Extension missiles between September 17 and 21. These nuclear-capable missiles were fired from an Ohio-class submarine positioned off the east coast of Florida. Officials emphasized that the tests are part of a series of recurring evaluations and do not address any particular world events.

The missiles launched from a submerged submarine and splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean. Before the tests, the Navy issued Notices to Airmen and Mariners to establish no-fly zones and restricted areas for vessels, in line with safety protocols. The series of launches achieved the 197th successful flight for the Trident II D5 weapons system.

“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,” said Vice Admiral Johnny R. Wolfe, Director of the Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs, the command responsible for the Navy’s strategic weapons.

The Trident II D5 missile, developed by Lockheed Martin, entered active service in 1990. The US Navy deploys the missiles on 14 Ohio-class submarines, while the Royal Navy equips four Vanguard-class submarines with them. A life-extension refresh was completed in 2017, extending the service life of the missiles into the 2040s.