Members of Congress, USSTRATCOM commander observe Trident missile launch from ballistic missile submarine

Members of Congress, USSTRATCOM commander observe missile launch from ballistic missile submarine

U.S. Strategic Command Public Affairs
11/9/2015

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. – Members of Congress and the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) commander were aboard the USS Kentucky when the U.S. Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) conducted a successful test flight of a Trident II D5 Missile, Nov. 7, 2015, to obtain valid reliability, accuracy and performance factors for use by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and USSTRATCOM.

The unarmed test missile was launched as part of a Demonstration and Shakedown Operations (DASO) from the USS Kentucky, an Ohio Class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), in the Pacific Test Range off the coast of Southern California. The primary objective of a DASO is to demonstrate the readiness of a SSBN’s crew and weapon system. This launch marked the 156th successful test flight of the Trident II (D5) missile conducted by SSP since 1989.

“A credible, effective nuclear deterrent is essential to our national security and the security of U.S. allies and friends,” said Adm. Cecil D. Haney, USSTRATCOM commander, who monitored the test from the USS Kentucky (SSBN 737).

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