U.S. Navy Conducts Missile Test, Participates in Multinational Exercise Off East Coast

September 22, 2025

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The U.S. Navy conducted a suborbital test launch of a Trident II (D5) missile from a submarine in the Atlantic Ocean on Sept. 21, at 7:28 p.m. EDT.

The launch occurred approximately 280 miles east of Cape Canaveral, according to data available from international sources.

The missile launch was not officially announced by the U.S. Navy. However, navigational warnings for the area were issued prior to the test. Such tests are conducted periodically to ensure the readiness and reliability of the U.S. submarine-launched ballistic missile system. The Trident II (D5) missile is a key component of the U.S. strategic nuclear deterrent.

In an unrelated but concurrent event, a U.S., Allied, and Partner surface action group is operating in the Atlantic in support of UNITAS 2025.

The exercise is the 66th iteration of the world’s longest-running multinational maritime exercise. UNITAS, which is Latin for “unity,” aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen regional partnerships.

UNITAS 2025 is taking place off the East Coast of the United States and involves approximately 8,000 personnel from 25 allied and partner nations. The exercise is also serving as a lead-in to a series of events celebrating the 250th birthday of the U.S. Navy.

According to U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, the exercise demonstrates the U.S. as a trusted maritime partner in the Caribbean, Central and South America.