USSTRATCOM, members of Congress observe missile launch from submarine

USSTRATCOM Public Affairs Office, NAVY NEWS SERVICE
9 November 2015
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. – Members of Congress and the U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) commander were aboard the USS Kentucky when the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) conducted a successful test flight of a Trident II D5 Missile, Nov. 7, 2015, to obtain valid
reliability, accuracy and performance factors for use by the Joint Chiefs of Staff and USSTRATCOM.
The unarmed test missile was launched as part of a Demonstration and Shakedown Operations (DASO) from the USS Kentucky, an Ohio Class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), in the Pacific Test Range off the coast of Southern California. The primary objective of a DASO is to demonstrate the readiness of a SSBN's crew and weapon system. This launch marked the 156th successful test flight of the Trident II (D5) missile conducted by SSP since 1989.
"A credible, effective nuclear deterrent is essential to our national security and the security of U.S. allies and friends," said Adm. Cecil D. Haney, USSTRATCOM commander, who monitored the test from the USS Kentucky (SSBN 737).
Admiral Haney stated that "strategic weapons tests demonstrate the readiness of our nation's nuclear triad and serve to assure our allies and deter our potential adversaries." He went on to say that exercises, weapons tests and operations are an important part of validating that our deterrence forces are capable 24/7.
Also witnessing the test was a congressional delegation including Sen. Joe Donnelly (Indiana), Rep. Stephen Womack (Arkansas), Rep. Pete Visclosky (Indiana), Rep. Jackie Walorski (Indiana), Rep. Larry Bucshon (Indiana) and professional staff members from Senate and House subcommittees.