WASHINGTON, D.C. - This 70th Anniversary Facts and Chronology was created to celebrate the history of SSP, showcasing the important role that SSP and partner personnel, past and present, have played throughout the program while inspiring the next generation to continue their work supporting the future of U.S. sea based strategic deterrence.
Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) was established in November 17, 1955 when President Dwight Eisenhower directed Secretary of the Navy Charles Thomas to establish the Special Projects Office (SPO) to develop, design and test the first-ever fleet ballistic missile. Appointed on November 8, 1955 as Director of Special Projects, Rear Adm. William 'Red' Raborn was tasked with the unprecedented challenge of delivering the first submarine-launched ballistic missile system. In the 70 years since, SSP has been responsible for the development, production, testing, and life-cycle maintenance of the Polaris, Poseidon, and Trident fleet ballistic missiles. Looking to the future, SSP is readying the Trident II D5 Life Extension 2 (D5LE2) missile for the Columbia-class submarines using modern technologies and tools not dreamed of during the 1950s. The men and women of SSP remain committed to supporting the mission and updating and maintaining the Trident II missile system, which provides approximately 70 percent of our nation's deployed nuclear deterrent triad.
U.S. Navy Publication//released
| Date Taken: | 12.19.2025 |
| Published: | 12-19-25 08:46 AM |
| Graphic ID: | 39703 |
| VIRIN: | 251219-N-N1701-1001 |
| Size: | 59.92 MB |
| Location: | WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 3 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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