LAUNCH COMPLEX 46 (TRIDENT) FACT SHEET

By Cliff Lethbridge

Aerial View Of Launch Complex 46

Configuration: Remote Firing Room, One Launch Pad

LAUNCH PAD 46 (TRIDENT)

Current Status: Renovated for Multi-Use Applications

First Launch (Trident): January 15, 1987

Final Launch (Trident): January 26, 1989

Number of Launches (Trident): 19

Vehicles Launched: Trident II

Launch Complex 46 was built to support land-based test launches of Navy Trident II missiles. Land-based launches were necessary to prove the reliability and characteristics of the missile in flight prior to the start of submarine-based launches. The site featured a flat pad and mobile service structure, but no blockhouse. Launches were conducted from a remote location. Launch Complex 46 is the closest launch site to the eastern tip of geographic Cape Canaveral, and is active today in support of multi-use rocket applications.

Trident II Launch From Pad 46 Circa 1987