Navy’s, Russia’s Missile Test-Launches Successful
The Navy successfully launched two Trident II D5 Fleet Ballistic Missiles from the USS Louisiana in the Pacific Ocean, according to SPX. This is the Trident’s 124th consecutive successful test launch since 1989.
Melanie A. Sloane, vice president of Fleet Ballistic Missile programs at Lockheed Martin, said “In this recent test, Navy Strategic Systems Programs has again demonstrated the reliability and credibility of the Fleet Ballistic Missile…A long partnership combined with disciplined performance by the entire Navy and industry team in every aspect of this critical program has made each and every one of these 124 test launches a success.”
The Department of Defense’s National Command Authority requires that our Navy conduct missile tests to make sure systems are working properly and safely. OHIO-class submarines and British VANGUARD-class submarines are equipped with D5 missiles.
Russia also successfully test-launched a missile, this one a long-range Topol missile designed to fly under the radar of ground-based missile detection systems. Is this a response to the U.S.’s missile defense agreements with Poland and the Czech Republic?
Tags: Czech Republic, Navy, Poland, Russia, Trident II D5 Fleet Ballistic Missiles