US Navy Plans New Nuclear Warhead for Submarines

The US Navy has launched a major modernization of its naval nuclear deterrent. The new Trident II D5 Life Extension 2 (D5LE2) missile system is intended to replace the current Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, which have been in service for more than 35 years.

The modernization also includes development of a new W93/Mk7 nuclear warhead, the first US program to develop a new nuclear warhead in nearly 40 years. The Navy is collaborating on the project with the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

The D5LE2 program entered the development and production phase last year, with the first deployment scheduled for 2039. The new missiles are intended for future Columbia-class submarines, which will gradually replace the current Ohio-class submarines.

The project also includes modernizing testing facilities and production capabilities in Georgia and Washington. At the same time, the Navy is expanding development of other strategic weapons, including a sea-launched cruise missile and the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic weapon.

The modernization is intended to ensure the credibility of the US nuclear deterrent for decades to come, according to the Navy.

(est, defence-industry)