U.S. Navy declares Full Operational Capability for Strategic Weapons Systems Ashore facility

Located at the Naval Ordnance Test Unit on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, SWS Ashore is a cutting-edge facility designed to test updates and enhancements to the Trident II D5 Strategic Weapon System (SWS) and related support systems. By offering a land-based platform, it allows comprehensive testing prior to fleet deployment, significantly de-risking integration efforts for the upcoming Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).

“Achieving full operational capability for SWS Ashore is a testament to the hard work and cooperation of multiple teams over more than a decade,” stated Captain Jason Schneider, NOTU Commanding Officer. The facility, which broke ground in November 2012, reflects the Navy’s commitment to advancing strategic deterrence capabilities while managing cost and risk.

Since becoming operational in 2019, SWS Ashore has met its original objectives. These include transferring lessons from the Ohio-class SSBN programme to the Columbia-class, supporting the U.K.’s Dreadnought-class initiatives, and establishing a robust end-to-end testing and training facility. “SWS Ashore is a true success story of proactive planning and risk management,” added Steven Van Dyk, Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) Chief Engineer.

The Trident II D5LE SWS, currently deployed on Ohio-class submarines, will also equip the Columbia-class fleet as they join service throughout the 2030s. The facility’s advanced testing capabilities pave the way for the next-generation Trident II D5LE2 system, ensuring seamless integration into future submarines and bolstering the Navy’s top acquisition priorities.

In addition to its impact on U.S. defence readiness, SWS Ashore also supports international partnerships. The facility plays a critical role in U.K. efforts to develop the Dreadnought-class SSBNs, leveraging the shared missile compartment design to align U.S. and U.K. testing and training programmes. “The ability to maintain synchronised schedules between the two programmes reduces costs and enhances efficiency,” explained Van Dyk.

Local collaboration has been vital to the success of SWS Ashore. Space Florida, a state public corporation, partnered with the Navy to repurpose an old missile launch site into this state-of-the-art testing hub. “The Space Coast community has been an outstanding partner, creating an environment conducive to innovation and progress,” noted Matt Vilk, SWS Ashore Programme Manager.

The facility exemplifies the Navy’s focus on strategic deterrence, which remains a cornerstone of U.S. national security policy. The Trident II D5LE SWS, as part of the nuclear triad, contributes significantly to the nation’s ability to deter threats, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of deployed strategic nuclear deterrent forces.

As the Columbia-class submarines prepare to enter service, SWS Ashore will continue to be a linchpin in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the Navy’s sea-based strategic deterrent.