An unarmed Trident II D5 missile launches from the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS I [US Navy photo]
Northrop Grumman successfully powers US Navy’s Trident II D5 Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) flight test.
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Press Release, Magna UT, 02 October 2023: Powered by Northrop Grumman Corporation’s solid rocket motors, one Trident II D5 Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) was successfully flight tested as part of the US Navy’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation 32 (DASO-32) event.
- The Navy exercise, known as DASO 32, demonstrates the readiness of the USS Louisiana (SSBN-743) crew and certifies the submarine for deployment.
- Successful results from the exercise increases the D5 SLBM test record to 191 successful launches with no motor failures.
- Some motors that supported the unarmed flight test were the oldest Trident II D5 motors flown to date – demonstrating their reliability and proven performance.
- In partnership with the US Navy and prime contractor Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman is modernising and digitising Trident II D5 manufacturing processes, including the implementation of advanced digital models, to further enhance manufacturing and enable sustained production for future demand.
Wendy Williams, vice president, propulsion systems, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman’s strategic motors have provided propulsion success for 191 successful test launches since their deployment to the fleet. That is the kind of performance the Navy has come to rely upon to meet national defence readiness with Northrop Grumman solid rocket motor technology to power the Trident II Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles.”
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