According to a reliable source, a recent test launch of the UK’s Trident nuclear missile has failed for the second consecutive time.
The incident occurred during an exercise off the east coast of Florida when an unarmed Trident 2 missile, launched from the nuclear-powered submarine HMS Vanguard, crashed into the ocean almost immediately.
The submarine, valued at £4 billion, was undergoing its first test launch in eight years after a failed attempt in 2016. The UK has not successfully launched a nuclear missile since 2012.
The country maintains four nuclear-armed submarines, with one always at sea to deter potential threats, especially from nations like Russia. This unsuccessful test was part of the final round for the recently overhauled HMS Vanguard, costing £500 million before it resumes patrol duty.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed that an “anomaly” occurred during the recent test launch, which was conducted under controlled test conditions. This development has sparked concerns regarding the reliability and effectiveness of Britain’s nuclear deterrent capabilities.
“It left the submarine but it just went plop, right next to them,” a source said.
In an embarrassing turn of events, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was on board the 150-meter vessel during the test launch, as confirmed by his spokesperson. First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key was also reportedly present. This incident occurred just a month after Mr. Shapps mentioned that the UK was in a “prewar” phase.
The Trident missile was intended to land thousands of miles away between Brazil and West Africa in the Atlantic. While the missile was successfully propelled into the air using compressed gas, its first-stage boosters failed to ignite, causing it to crash back into the water.
Fortunately, the HMS Vanguard, submerged at launch depth, was not hit by the missile.
It comes just 10 days after the departure of the UK’s flagship aircraft carrier for a major Nato exercise was postponed after an unspecified “issue” was found in final checks with the starboard propeller coupling.
Following the missile test failure, the Labour Party expressed concern and requested assurances from the Rishi Sunak government, characterizing the incident as a matter of grave concern.
However, the MoD did not describe the test as a failure.
UK’s Nuclear Deterrent Capability Still Strong
According to a statement, the nuclear-capable HMS Vanguard and her crew “have been proven fully capable of operating the UK’s Continuous At-Sea Deterrent, passing all tests during a recent demonstration and shakedown operation (DASO) – a routine test to confirm that the submarine can return to service following deep maintenance work”.
“The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK’s nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence,” it added stressing that there were “no implications for the reliability of the wider Trident missile systems and stockpile” following the failed launch.
Mr. Shapps is set to deliver a written ministerial statement regarding Britain’s nuclear deterrent in the House of Commons on Wednesday, February 21.
“Reports of a Trident test failure are concerning. The defense secretary will want to reassure Parliament that this test has no impact on the effectiveness of the UK’s deterrent operations,” commented John Healey, the shadow defense secretary, on Wednesday, February 21.
He further stated, “Labour’s support for the UK’s nuclear deterrent is total. We recognize the special service of those who’ve maintained our continuous at-sea deterrence for over 50 years.”
The last time the Royal Navy tested a Trident nuclear-capable warhead, there was a serious malfunction in the system and the missile flew in the wrong direction.
Throughout history in the UK, there has been continuous opposition to the British nuclear program in various forms.
Back in 2007, a formidable coalition consisting of 100 scientists, lawyers, church leaders, actors, writers, and Members of Parliament (MPs) united to call for a cessation of Tony Blair’s pursuit of a replacement for Britain’s Trident nuclear weapon system.
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