Photo Gallery

151107-N-ZW825-044

151107-N-ZW825-044 USS KENTUCKY AT SEA (Nov. 7, 2015) Commander, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), Adm. Cecil D. Haney (left) observes as the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS Kentucky’s (SSBN 737) assistant weapons officer, Lt. Rick Bates, gives instructions during the 156th successful test flight of an unarmed Trident II D5 missile, Nov. 7, 2015. Haney and several congressional members boarded the Kentucky to observe the event. The missile was launched as part of a Demonstration and Shakedown Operation (DASO) in the Pacific Test Range to validate the readiness and effectiveness of an SSBN’s crew and weapon system. Strategic weapons tests, along with exercises and operations, demonstrate the readiness of the nation’s nuclear triad, assuring America's allies and deterring potential adversaries. One of nine DoD unified combatant commands, USSTRATCOM has global strategic missions, assigned through the Unified Command Plan, which include strategic deterrence; space operations; cyberspace operations; joint electronic warfare; global strike; missile defense; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; combating weapons of mass destruction; and analysis and targeting. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Byron C. Linder/Released)