A recent test launch of a British Trident 2 nuclear missile malfunctioned off the coast of Florida. This marks the second failure of the UK's submarine-based nuclear deterrent system in the last 8 years.
The "anomaly" took place on January 30th aboard the nuclear-powered submarine HMS Vanguard during an exercise near Florida. In 2016, another Trident 2 test had failed in the same area.
Details emerged that the missile and dummy warhead failed to ignite and sank into the ocean. However, officials stated the fault was specific to the test equipment. They expressed full confidence in the reliability of the overall Trident system and UK nuclear stockpile.
Defense Minister Grant Shapps and other officials were onboard HMS Vanguard for the failed test. Shapps affirmed it has no impact on the UK's nuclear capabilities if needed.
The Trident system consists of 4 nuclear-armed submarines, each carrying American-made Trident 2 missiles with a range of 4,000 miles. The UK shares the Trident inventory with the US.
Annual costs for the nuclear deterrent make up about 6% of the UK defense budget. The current submarines are being replaced by new Dreadnought-class ones in the 2030s, budgeted to cost up to $51 billion.
While concerning, officials stated the failed isolated test does not undermine the effectiveness of the UK's sea-based nuclear weapons. The Trident system remains fully operational if required.