The U.S. Navy has successfully carried out four launches of unarmed Trident II D5 missiles. The launches marked the 197th consecutive successful test flight of the Trident II system. Originally fielded in the 1980s, the Trident II underwent a life-extension programme in 2017, extending its service life into the 2040s. The team is also pushing ahead developing the next generation strategic weapon system to ensure the sea-based deterrence capability of tomorrow,” he said. Nonetheless, the launches underline the enduring importance of the U.S. and UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent, with the Trident II remaining at the core of NATO’s nuclear posture.