The Trident IID5 SLBM, already the most lethal SLBM in the world, will be even more precise in the future. The Enhanced Effectiveness (E2) program will steer the W76/MK-4 warhead to GPS-like accuracy (10 meters). That means this warhead could be used with a HE filling for conventional strikes. For the moment the MK-4 will be upgraded to the MK-4A standard.The W88/MK-5 is accurate enough (90m CEP) to obliterate everything with its high-yield capacity (475kt) so it won't need an upgrade program.Should the need of more high-yield warheads arise, there could be a possibility to adapt the W87/MK-21 MX warhead to the Trident IID5. The MK-6 guidance system of the Trident will be also be upgraded under the NGG (next-generation guidance) program. These various programs will enable the Trident II to be operational until 2042 under the names of Trident IILE (life extension),Trident II D-5A or Trident E6.
Posts: 44
By: bubulle - 9th December 2004 at 14:11
The Trident IID5 SLBM, already the most lethal SLBM in the world, will be even more precise in the future. The Enhanced Effectiveness (E2) program will steer the W76/MK-4 warhead to GPS-like accuracy (10 meters). That means this warhead could be used with a HE filling for conventional strikes. For the moment the MK-4 will be upgraded to the MK-4A standard.The W88/MK-5 is accurate enough (90m CEP) to obliterate everything with its high-yield capacity (475kt) so it won't need an upgrade program.Should the need of more high-yield warheads arise, there could be a possibility to adapt the W87/MK-21 MX warhead to the Trident IID5. The MK-6 guidance system of the Trident will be also be upgraded under the NGG (next-generation guidance) program. These various programs will enable the Trident II to be operational until 2042 under the names of Trident IILE (life extension),Trident II D-5A or Trident E6.