LM Advances Trident II D5 Modernization with $850M Award

July 15, 2026

LM Advances Trident II D5 Modernization with $850M Award

An unarmed Trident II D5 Life Extension (D5LE) missile launches from an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) off the coast of Florida. Photo credit: U.S. Navy.

Press Release

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 17-21, 2025) – An unarmed Trident II D5 Life Extension (D5LE) missile launches from an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) off the coast of Florida. The four launches conducted from September 17-21 were part of a planned test event which are conducted on a recurring, scheduled basis to evaluate and ensure the continued reliability and accuracy of the system. This exercise validated performance expectations of the Trident II D5LE strategic weapon system (SWS). These test flights resulted in the achievement of 197 total successful missile flight test launches of the Trident II D5 strategic weapon system. The D5 missiles were originally developed in the 1980s, and a life-extension refresh was completed in 2017 to extend the service life of the system to the 2040s. The Trident II D5 strategic weapon system is a highly accurate and reliable weapon system. (U.S. Navy Photo/Released)

TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Lockheed Martin has been awarded an $850 million contract modification from the U.S. Navy to continue design and development of the Trident II D5 Life Extension 2 (D5LE2) program — a critical piece of the nation’s nuclear triad. The U.S. Department of War announced the award in April.

The Trident II D5 strategic weapon system remains a cornerstone of U.S. deterrence, recognized for its accuracy, reliability and operational performance. Originally developed in the 1980s and modernized through a life extension effort completed in 2017, the system is being further advanced to ensure its effectiveness into the 2040s and beyond.

“Lockheed Martin is fully committed to the mission as we move forward into this next phase,” said Eric Scherff, vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Fleet Ballistic Missile (FBM) Program. “This award marks another important step along the way as we continue delivering a credible and resilient deterrent for the American forces and allies.”

Submarine-launched ballistic missiles are the sea-based leg of the nation’s nuclear triad, alongside intercontinental ballistic missiles and nuclear-capable bombers. Representing approximately 70 percent of deployed strategic deterrent capability, the sea-based leg provides unmatched survivability, persistent presence and operational flexibility.

A strong, modern deterrent remains essential to American national security and allied assurance. Through continued investment in programs like D5LE2, Lockheed Martin is advancing technologies that strengthen deterrence and support the warfighter in an evolving threat environment.

To support this critical work, Lockheed Martin is expanding its workforce across multiple locations and actively recruiting engineers, technicians and other professionals who are passionate about national security and innovation. Opportunities are available for those seeking to contribute to a mission with a global impact.

Work will be performed in Colorado, Florida, Utah, Washington, Georgia and the National Capital Region.