London CNN —A British nuclear missile test launch failed at a site off the coast of Florida, marking the second time in eight years that the country’s Trident 2 ballistic missiles have malfunctioned during trials.
The fault was specific to the test kit and that the launch would have likely been successful if it had occurred out on a patrol, using a real nuclear warhead, according to the source.
“The UK’s nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective,” The Ministry of Defense spokesperson added.
“The test has reaffirmed the effectiveness of the UK’s nuclear deterrent, in which we have absolute confidence.”A Trident II missile is launched by the US navy during a test in 1989.
Phil Sandlin/AP/FileShapps is expected to present a written ministerial statement on Britain’s nuclear deterrent to Parliament on Wednesday, according to the House of Commons order paper.
Persons:
London CNN —, of Defense Grant Shapps, Sir Ben Key, Phil Sandlin, ”, John Healey
Organizations:
London CNN, HMS Vanguard, Ministry of Defense, Trident, CNN, The Sun, of Defense, “, Vanguard, US, Labour Party, Royal Navy
Locations:
British, Florida, United States, Georgia