Important points:
- Lockheed Martin celebrates the successful launch of the Trident II D5 Life Extension Ballistic Fleet missile.
- The Trident II D5 missile sets a record of 191 successful tests, proving its reliability.
- Lockheed Martin continues its commitment to modernizing ballistic missiles for national defense.
On September 27, Lockheed Martin, in cooperation with the U.S. Navy, celebrated the successful launch of the Trident II D5 Fleet Life Extension Ballistic Missile (FBM). This operation, known as Display and Extortion Operation 32 (DASO-32), involved the launch of an unarmed missile from the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of California.
A milestone in test reliability
This successful launch represents a major milestone, raising the record for successful tests of the Trident II D5 missile to 191 since its original design in 1989. This achievement makes the Trident II D5 the large ballistic missile with the longest reliable test record.
Certificate and important data
During Operation DASO-32, the US Navy submarine USS Louisiana (SSBN 743) demonstrated the readiness of its crew and strategic weapons system, receiving certification for strategic patrol. In addition to the practical demonstration, this operation allowed for the collection of data on the performance of the D5 Life Extension missile, using a missile test kit provided by Lockheed Martin.
A permanent commitment to national defense
Lockheed Martin has been a trusted partner of the U.S. Navy for nearly seven decades in developing advanced weapons capabilities to deter threats both domestically and internationally. Lockheed Martin’s commitment to innovation and excellence has been critical to the continued success of submarine-launched ballistic missiles and other related equipment.
Trident II D5 missile: a technological gem
The Trident II D5 missile, developed and developed by Lockheed Martin for the Navy, is one of the most advanced ballistic missiles in the world. She is currently on board US OHIO-class submarines and UK VANGUARD-class submarines. This three-stage, solid-propellant, inertial-guided missile has a nominal range of 4,000 nautical miles and can carry multiple re-entry vehicles, each with independent targets.
Investing in the future of defense
Lockheed Martin’s Trident II D5 missile life extension program, known as D5LE, modernized this submarine-launched missile while maintaining its proven performance at a cost significantly lower than a new missile design. This investment in missile modernization and improvement ensures that the Trident II D5 will remain a vital part of the United States nuclear triad for many decades.
Continuous innovation and excellence
Lockheed Martin has demonstrated its commitment to innovation through advanced digital technology, state-of-the-art facilities and a culture of excellence. The continued cooperation between Lockheed Martin and the US Navy ensures that the country will have a reliable and effective strategic deterrent capability at sea for the foreseeable future.