ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 2, 2014) A trident II D-5 ballistic missile is launched from the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine USS West Virginia (SSBN 736) during a missile test at the Atlantic Missile Range. The test flights were part of a demonstration and shakedown operation, which the Navy uses to certify a submarine for deployment after a major overhaul. The missiles were converted into test configurations with kits containing range safety devices and flight telemetry instrumentation. The U.S. Navy supports U.S. Strategic Command's strategic deterrence missions by operating and maintaining Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines to deter regional and strategic threats. The triad, the U.S. strategic nuclear forces of ICBMs, bombers, and ballistic missile submarines, remains the primary deterrent of nuclear attacks against the U.S., our allies, and partners. (U.S. Navy photo)