CAPE CANAVERAL, Calif., Dec. 7 (UPI) -- U.S. submarine nuclear missile capabilities appeared to be up to snuff after a live test launch last month off the U.S. coast.
A pair of unarmed Trident II D5 missiles was launched from the Eastern Range by the USS Maryland in routine test to confirm the reliability and readiness of the nuclear mainstay. Lockheed Martin said in a news release Thursday the Nov. 21 launch marked the 117th consecutive launch of the weapon since 1989.
"The Navy's rigorous testing program helps to ensure the reliability and credibility of this critical national security asset," said Lockheed Vice President Tory Bruno.
The Trident II D5 is carried aboard Ohio-class subs and packs a payload of multiple re-entry vehicles. The three-stage, solid-fuel missile is made of lightweight materials and has a range of about 4,000 miles. Each Ohio boat carries two dozen missiles.
The missile is also used by Britain's Royal Navy and has been at the center of a row in London over Prime Minister Tony Blair's desire to invest in a new class of Trident-capable submarines. Blair says the Trident deterrence must be maintained as the world's nuclear club gets larger; however opponents bridle at the anticipated cost and impact the move might have on Britain's treaty commitments to non-proliferation.
