The latest version, and by far the deadliest and
most versatile, is the Trident C-4 undersea
nuclear weapons system. Its longer-range missiles,
larger submarines, and complete U.S. “home
ports,” have increased combat readiness and cut
the operating costs of the FBM force.
Trident is
the name of the entire weapons system, including
submarines, missiles, and base. The Trident
missile can reach enemy targets from both the
Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, thus making
expensive overseas ports unnecessary for Trident
submarines. In addition, the Trident I missile has
been adapted for use with our present Poseidon
submarines. This has increased the missile range
to 4,000 nautical miles. All Trident submarines
have exceeded their performance design specifica-
tions in speed and quietness and have successfully
launched Trident (C-4) test missiles. Both the
Poseidon and Trident missiles have a multiple
warhead capability.
Figure 1-2 shows the Trident submarine, USS
Ohio, SSBN 726. Trident submarines are
replacing the aging fleet ballistic missile
submarines built during a short period in the
1960s. They will replace Poseidon submarines by
the late 1990s.
In 1980 the Navy began development of a new
submarine-launched ballistic missile, the Trident
II (D-5), with improved accuracy, extended range,
and greater payload. Eventually all Trident
submarines will be configured to carry Trident II
missiles.
SURFACE ACTION GROUP (SAG)
Task force or group commanders include in
their operation orders provision for SURFACE
ACTION GROUPS (SAGS), which can be detached
to perform certain missions. They prepare a battle
plan for these forces to follow
Figure 1-2.—USS Ohio (SSBN-726).
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