Trident I - Naval Missiles of the United States of America

Description

Using advanced technology in propellants, micro-electronics and new weight-saving materials, the Trident I C4 missile incorporated the multiple independently-targeted vehicle capability of its predecessor Poseidon and provided a range of more than 4,000 nautical miles with a full payload.

Click for larger image. — Trident C4 Missile fired at a test range. Note the "aerospike" on the nose of the missile. This is extended after the missile is fired and makes the missile appear aerodynamically longer, thus increasing its stability and range. Photograph copyrighted by Lockheed-Martin Missile and Space.

Characteristics

Designation	Trident C-4 UGM-96A
Ship Class Used On	Ohio Class SSBN-726 (24 missiles) Backfitted to some Benjamin Franklin SSBN-640 (16 missiles)
Date In Service	1979
Weight	70,000 lbs. (31,750 kg)
Dimensions	74 X 408 in (188 X 1,036 cm)
Payload	Eight 100 kt Mark 4 MIRV
Range	4,350 nm
Propulsion	2 stage solid fuel rocket

Sources

Data from:

Lockheed-Martin Missile and Space
"The Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems 1991/92" by Norman Friedman
US Navy Fact File

China Lake Museum