U.S. Navy Strategic Systems Programs 70th Birthday Message

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Strategic Systems Programs

July 23, 2025 | 6:03

WASHINGTON (June 30, 2025) - U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) celebrates its 70th birthday as the Navy command that provides cradle-to-grave lifecycle support for the sea-based leg of the nation’s nuclear triad.
Since 1955, SSP has maintained responsibility for the submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) system, owning every aspect of research, development, production, logistics, storage, repair, and operational support for the SWS. Today, the Trident II D5 is deployed on Ohio-class SSBNs and is out on strategic patrol, supporting the U.S. Navy’s mission in maintaining peace through strength.
SSP is responsible for sustaining strategic weapon system (SWS) on the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBN) and supporting the integration of the D5LE weapon system on the new Columbia-class SSBNs. Looking to the future, SSP is integral to nuclear triad modernization with development of the D5LE2 SWS and creating the regional strike capabilities with the development of the nuclear sea launched cruise missile (SLCM-N) and the non-nuclear hypersonic conventional prompt strike system (CPS).
This year’s celebration coincides with the 250th birthday of the U.S. Navy, on Oct. 13. For 250 years, America’s Navy has promoted prosperity and security, deterred aggression, and protected the American way of life. The U.S. Navy, through SSP, oversees one leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear deterrent Triad that also includes the U.S. Air Force’s intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) and nuclear-capable bombers.