Introduction

The Poseidon C3, the successor to the Polaris missile program, was a two-stage, solid-propellant missile with a larger frame and greater weight, allowing for increased payload capacity. Despite its increased dimensions, Poseidon missiles were designed to be compatible with the existing launch tubes of fleet ballistic missile (FBM) submarines, which previously housed Polaris missiles.

It had the same 2,500 nautical mile range as the Polaris A3, but unlike its predecessor, it incorporated the use of multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). This allowed a single Poseidon missile to deliver up to fourteen Mark 3 reentry bodies across a broad “footprint,” effectively targeting multiple sites or concentrating firepower on a single target for maximum impact. Additionally, the Poseidon C3 introduced advancements in missile accuracy and countermeasures.

The first launch of a Poseidon missile from a submerged submarine took place on August 3, 1970, on the USS James Madison (SSBN 627) near Cape Canaveral, Florida. By March 31, 1971, the Poseidon C3 officially entered operational service.

Into the 1980s, twelve of the thirty-one Poseidon FBM submarines were further modified to carry the newer Trident I (C4) missile. The era of the Poseidon C3 came to an end in September 1992 with the last Poseidon deterrence patrol.

About this Timeline

This comprehensive chronology details the development and operational history of the Poseidon C3 since the 1960s. The text is adapted from the “FBM Facts/chronology: Polaris, Poseidon, Trident,” published by the U.S. Navy’s Strategic Systems Program Office.

1960s

1963

NOVEMBER 1963

• Harold Brown, Director of Defense Research & Engineering (DDR&E), directed the Projects Office (SPO) to “proceed with the definition of a Polaris follow-on (known initially as the B-3) that would enhance FBM penetration of defended urban-industrial targets”.

1964

NOVEMBER 1964

• The Special Projects Office (SPO) was officially instructed to proceed with a MIRVed Polaris B3 with guidance improvements to provide greater accuracy.

1965

18 JANUARY 1965

• President Lyndon B. Johnson, in a special message to Congress, revealed plans for a new missile within the Fleet Ballistic Missile System, named POSEIDON. Designated as C3, POSEIDON was to have a diameter of 74 inches, compared to POLARIS’s 54 inches. It would also be 3 feet longer than the 31-foot A3 and approximately 30,000 pounds heavier.

1966

1 APRIL 1966

• FBM program had at this date as its objectives: completion of construction and launching of the last two SSBNs; completion of the overhauls to reflt the first five SSBNs to carry POLARIS A-3 missiles; continued deployment of SSBNs on operational patrol in the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets; and proceeding with engineering development on the newest missile, POSEIDON (C-3).

12 DECEMBER 1966

• First inert POSEIDON (C-3) test vehicle launched from a land-based launcher (PEASHOOTER) at San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard (Hunters Point Division).

17 DECEMBER 1966

• Secretary of Defense approved the production of POSEIDON (C-3)

1967

7 APRIL 1967

• The First STV-4K POSEIDON special test vehicle was launched from PEASHOOTER and caught by a special crane (Skycatch).

5 JULY 1967

• The first full-scale firing of the POSEIDON (C-3) first-stage motor was statically fired at the Hercules, Inc., facilities at Magna, Utah. The test was successful.

1968

3 FEBRUARY 1968

• The first full-scale static firing of POSEIDON (C-3) Second stage motor at the Hercules, Inc., facilities at Magna, Utah. The test was successful.

12 MARCH 1968

• The Navy awarded the Lockheed Missiles and Space Company a $456.1 million cost-plus incentive fee contract for the development and production of the POSEIDON missile system. The contract represents one of the first awards made by the Navy Department providing for total system development and production

16 AUGUST 1968

• The first test flight model of the POSEIDON missile (C3X-1) was successfully launched from a land pad at Cape Kennedy. The principal objective of the test was basic missile development. The POSEIDON is scheduled for deployment on 31 of the 41 FBM submarines.

26 NOVEMBER 1968

• POSEIDON developmental missile launched from Cape Kennedy. This was the second in a series of concept test firings.

1969

21 JANUARY 1969

• The third POSEIDON developmental missile was launched from Cape Kennedy. A malfunction during the first stage powered flight of the test missile caused it to veer off course and it was destroyed by the Range Safety Officer.

3 FEBRUARY 1969

• USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627), the first of the Navy’s POLARIS missile submarines scheduled for conversion to POSEIDON missile capability, entered its assigned shipyard, the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics, Groton, Conn.

19 FEBRUARY 1969

• Fourth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

20 MARCH 1969

• Fifth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

9 APRIL 1969

• Sixth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

1 MAY 1969

• USS OBSERVATION ISLAND (AG-154) completed overhaul and retrofit to POSEIDON capability at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard; Port Canaveral, Florida, assigned as homeport.

12 MAY 1969

• USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) entered the Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. for conversion to a POSEIDON missile capability.

24 MAY 1969

• Seventh POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

14 JUNE 1969

• The eighth POSEIDON missile was launched from Cape Kennedy.

9 JULY 1969

• The ninth POSEIDON missile was launched from Cape Kennedy.

11 JULY 1969

• USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) commenced overhaul and conversion to a POSEIDON capability at Electric Boat.

4 AUGUST 1969

• USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) commenced overhaul and conversion to POSEIDON at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo, California.

21 AUGUST 1969

• The tenth POSEIDON missile was launched from Cape Kennedy.

17 SEPTEMBER 1969

• The eleventh POSEIDON missile was launched from Cape Kennedy.

3 OCTOBER 1969

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) commenced overhaul and conversion to POSEIDON at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton Washington

3 NOVEMBER 1969

• The twelfth POSEIDON missile was launched from Cape Kennedy.

10 NOVEMBER 1969

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) commenced overhaul and conversion to POSEIDON at Newport News.

26 NOVEMBER 1969

• Thirteenth flight test in the POSEIDON development program conducted at Cape Kennedy, Fla.

16 DECEMBER 1969

• The fourteenth flight teat of POSEIDON was conducted from the surface missile teat-firing ship USS OBSERVATION ISLAND (AG-153). This was the first operational missile tube launch and the first complete teat of the POSEIDON weapons system, including the launcher, fire control, and missile subsystems.

1970s

1970

19 JANUARY 1970

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) commenced overhaul and POSEIDON conversion at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the last of the four authorized FY 1970 conversions.

23 JANUARY 1970

• Fifteenth POSEIDON missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

3 FEBRUARY 1970

• USS CANOPUS (AS-34) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. CANOPUS was the first FBM Tender to undergo modification to support POSEIDON submarines.

4 FEBRUARY 1970

• Sixteenth flight test in the POSEIDON development program and the second test from the USS OBSERVATION ISLAND).

24 MARCH 1970

• Seventeenth night test in the POSEIDON development program, and the third from the USS OBSERVATION ISLAND.

14 MAY 1970

• Eighteenth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

28 MAY 1970

• Resupply ship USNS MARSHFIELD (TAK-282) completed conversion to FBM capability. MARSHFIELD, primarily a POSEIDON resupply ship also had a capability for POLARIS A2/A3.

17 JUNE 1970

• Nineteenth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.

28 JUNE 1970

• USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627), the lead ship in the POSEIDON conversion program completed conversion to C-3 capability at Electric Boat Division, Groton, Cohn.

29 JUNE 1970

• Twentieth POSEIDON test missile launched from Cape Kennedy.  

3 AUGUST 1970

• The first submerged launch of a POSEIDON Production Evaluation Missile (PEM) was successfully conducted from USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627). The firing was observed by a Russian ship, LAPTEV, whose crew was unsuccessful in attempts to recover closure plate segments from the water after the launch of the missile.

11 AUGUST 1970

• USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at Newport News, Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

17 AUGUST 1970

• The second submerged launch of a POSEIDON PEM was successfully conducted from USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627).

8 SEPTEMBER 1970

• The third submerged launch of POSEIDON PEM was successfully conducted from USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629).

21 SEPTEMBER 1970

• The fourth submerged launch of a POSEIDON PEM was successfully conducted from USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629).

21 SEPTEMBER 1970

• POSEIDON development flight test program was concluded.

6 OCTOBER 1970

• The fifth submerged launch of a POSEIDON PEM was successfully conducted from USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627).

23 OCTOBER 1970

• POSEIDON DASO program commenced with the successful launch of a POSEIDON missile from the USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627).

19 NOVEMBER 1970

• USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn.

27 NOVEMBER 1970

• The Blue Crew of USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) successfully fired a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

16 DECEMBER 1970

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

1971

4 FEBRUARY 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

18 FEBRUARY 1971

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at Newport News, Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

22 FEBRUARY 1971

• USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) completed yard availability for conversion to POSEIDON capability at Mare Island Naval Shipyard.

9 MARCH 1971

• FBM tender USS SIMON LAKE (AS-33) Completed yard availability at Puget Sound Navy Shipyard. SIMON LAKE was the second FBM tender to be provided with POSEIDON capability.

15 MARCH 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

29 MARCH 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

31 MARCH 1971

• USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627) deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol with 16 tactical POSEIDON C-3 missiles. MADISON’S deployment introduced the POSEIDON into the nation’s arsenal of operational deterrent weapons and brought to successful fruition the development program announced in January 1965 for a successor weapon system to POLARIS. POSEIDON incorporated substantial improvements in accuracy and resistance to countermeasures over previous generations of missiles, but its principal advantage was in its flexibility, which provided a capacity for the delivery of multiple warheads, widely spaced, on separate targets over a variety of target footprints.

19 APRIL 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

30 APRIL 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

30 APRIL 1971

• USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633), the seventh ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, completed availability at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn. Conversion duration was 15.75 months.

10 MAY 1971

• The initial POSEIDON patrol was successfully completed with the arrival of USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627) alongside the tender CANOPUS (AS-34) at Holy Loch, Scotland, for a refit period.

11 MAY 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) successfully launched two POSEIDON C-3 missiles in Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

15 MAY 1971

• FBM Resupply ship, USNS VICTORIA (TAK 281) completed yard availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. TAK 281 was the second resupply ship modified to support POSEIDON C-3 SSBNs in addition to its A2/A3 capability.

21 MAY 1971

• USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 682), the third POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed from Charleston, S.C., for an operational period.

7 JUNE 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

2 JULY 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

11 JULY 1971

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631), the fourth POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol.

17 JULY 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile completing the ship’s Demonstration avid Shakedown Operations.

1 AUGUST 1971

• The second FBM tender to be provided with POSEIDON C-3 capability, USS SIMON LAKE (AS-33) departed to the Cooper River, S.C., tender refit site.

16 AUGUST 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile, completing the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

2 SEPTEMBER 1971

• Conversion of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) to POSEIDON capability was completed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the eighth SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

16 SEPTEMBER 1971

• USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630), the fifth POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol.

21 SEPTEMBER 1971

• Conversion of USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) to POSEIDON capability was completed at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, the ninth SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

22 SEPTEMBER 1971

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628), the sixth POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol.

14 OCTOBER 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

21 OCTOBER 1971

• Range Instrumentation Ship, TAGM-22, completed POSEIDON modification at Northwest Marine Iron Works. Her primary mission was to support C-3 operational tests/follow-on operational tests.

28 OCTOBER 1971

• USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633), the seventh POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol.

29 OCTOBER 1971

• Conversion of USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) to POSEIDON capability was completed at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn. JACKSON was the 10^th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

4 NOVEMBER 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations. This was the first surface launch of a POSEIDON missile from an SSBN.

24 NOVEMBER 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile, completing the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

6 DECEMBER 1971

• The Blue Crew of USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

17 DECEMBER 1971

• The Gold Crew of USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile completing the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

1972

21 JANUARY 1972

• The Gold Crew of USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 636) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile, completing the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

7 MARCH 1972

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol, carrying 16 POSEIDON missiles.

26 MARCH 1972

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol following C-3 conversion.  

26 APRIL 1972

• USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) deployed from Charleston, S.C., for operational patrol following POSEIDON conversion.

12 MAY 1972

• Conversion of USS SIMON BOLIVAR (SSBN 641) to POSEIDON capability as completed at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. BOLIVAR was the 11th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

15 MAY 1972

• The 12th SSBN to undergo POSEIDON conversion, USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) completed a scheduled yard availability at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn.

15 MAY 1972

• FBM resupply ship, USNS NORWALK (TAK 279), completed a scheduled yard availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. NORWALK was the third resupply ship to be modified to provide support capability for POSEIDON C-3 missiles in addition to her existent POLARIS A2/A3 support capability.

16 MAY 1972

• With the return of USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) from POSEIDON patrol at Holy Loch, Scotland, a total of 1,000 POLARIS/POSEIDON deterrent patrols had been successfully completed (975 POLARIS/25 POSEIDON).

16 JUNE 1972

• The Blue Crew of USS BENJAMIN FRANKLlN (SSBN 640) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

16 JUNE 1972

• Modifications to the New London FBM training facility to accommodate POSEIDON MK 88 MOD 1 fire control training were completed. The facility was able to provide FBM POSEIDON off-crew refresher training.

28 JUNE 1972

• Modifications of the FBM weapon system laboratories at the Naval Guided Missiles School. Dam Neck, Virginia were completed. The facility was ready to accommodate POSEIDON MK 88 MOD 1 fire control training.

5 JULY 1972

• The Blue Crew of USS SIMON BOLIVAR (SSBN 641) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

21 JULY 1972

• The 13th ship to undergo POSEIDON conversion, USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) completed a scheduled yard availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

28 JULY 1972

• The first SSBN 627 Class POSEIDON MK 88 Mod 1 fire control tenderside conversion was completed and checked out on USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) at Holy Loch, Scotland.        

31 JULY 1972

• Conversion of USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643) to POSEIDON capability was completed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

18 AUGUST 1972

• The POSEIDON OT program commenced with the successful launch of four POSEIDON C-3 missiles by the Blue Crew, of USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631). The tests were supported by the range instrumentation ship, USNS RANGE SENTINEL (TAGM-22).

25 SEPTEMBER 1972

• The Blue Crew of USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643) successfully launched a POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

28 SEPTEMBER 1972

• The GoId Crew of USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 632) successfully launched four C-3 missiles in the second POSEIDON operational test.

27 OCTOBER 1973

• POSEIDON Conversion Of USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) was completed at Electric Boat, Groton, conn. KAMEHAMEHA was the 15th ship to be provided with C-3 capability.

2 NOVEMBER 1972

• The Blue Crew of USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) launched four C-3 missiles in the third POSEIDON operational test.

10 NOVEMBER 1972

• USS SIMON BOLIVAR (SSBN 641) deployed for operational Patrol carrying 16 POSEIDON C-3 tactical missiles.

17 NOVEMBER 1972

• POSEIDON conversion of USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) was completed at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. POLK was the 16th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

1 DECEMBER 1972

• USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) deployed for operational patrol carrying 16 tactical POSEIDON C-3 missiles.

17 DECEMBER 1972

• The Blue Crew of USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) successfully launched four C-3 missiles in the fourth POSEIDON operational test.

18 DECEMBER 1972

• The Gold Crew of USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 044) successfully launched one POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

1973

15 JANUARY 1973

• POSEIDON conversion of USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617), the 24th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability, commenced at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

18 JANUARY 1973

• The Blue Crew of USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

24 JANUARY 1973

• The Gold Crew of USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) launched four POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in the fifth C-3 Operational Test.

8 FEBRUARY 1973

• POSEIDON conversion of USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) was completed at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. This was the 17th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability.

18 FEBRUARY 1973

• USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643) deployed for operational patrol carrying 16 POSEIDON C-3 tactical missiles.

2 MARCH 1973

• The Gold Crew of USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633) launched four POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in the sixth C-3 Operational Test.

15 MARCH 1973

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) commenced yard availability for POSEIDON conversion at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn.

22 MARCH 1973

• USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655), the 18th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability, completed POSEIDON conversion at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

2 APRIL 1973

• FBM tender USS HUNLEY (AS-31), the third tender to be provided with POSEIDON capability, commenced yard availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

7 APRIL 1973

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656), the 19th ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, completed availability at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn. Conversion duration was 17 months.

8 APRIL 1973

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644), the 14th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol.

9 MAY 1973

• The Blue Crew of USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile In support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

17 MAY 1973

• USS FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (SSBN 657) completed conversion at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. This 20th SSBN to be provided C-3 capability completed the Fiscal Year 1972 conversion program.

19 MAY 1973

• The Blue Crew of USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

22 MAY 1973

• The return of USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) from POSEIDON patrol marked the completion of 1100 POLARIS/POSEIDON) deterrent patrols (1027 POLARIS/73 POSEIDON). This equated to approximately 181 years of submerged alert deterrence since the deployment of the first POLARIS submarine, USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (SSBN 598) on 15 November 1960.

29 MAY 1973

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645), the 15^th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed following a 6-month conversion at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. During her predeployment period, POLK launched a missile in Demonstration and Shake Down operation.

9 JUNE 1973

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) deployed for operational patrol. Following C-3 conversion at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn. KAMEHAMEHA launched a C-3 missile during Demonstration And Shakedown operation.

2 SEPTEMBER 1973

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654), the 17th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol carrying 16 POSEIDON tactical missiles. During pre-deployment exercises, MARSHALL launched a C-3 missile during Demonstration And Shakedown operation.

15 SEPTEMBER 1973

• The Gold Crew of FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (SSB 657) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile during Demonstration And Shakedown Operation.

26 SEPTEMBER 1973

• USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655), the 18th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol. During pre-deployment exercises, STIMSON launched a POSEIDON missile in Demonstration And Shakedown Operation.

1 OCTOBER 1973

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624), the 27th ship in the C-3 conversion program, commenced yard availability at Newport News, Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. Conversion was scheduled for 17.75 months.

12 OCTOBER 1973

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656), the 19th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN deployed for operational patrol. Following C-3 conversion at Electric Boat, Groton, Connecticut, CARVER launched a C-3 at Demonstration And Shakedown Operation.

1 DECEMBER 1973

• USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) deployed for operational patrol carrying 16 tactical POSEIDON C-3 missiles.

10 DECEMBER 1973

• USS FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (SSBN 657), the 20th POSEIDON carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol. Following C-3 conversion at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, KEY launched a C-3 missile in Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

15 DECEMBER 1973

• The Blue Crew of USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) successfully launched one C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration And Shakedown operations.

18 DECEMBER 1973

• The Gold Crew of USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 044) successfully launched one POSEIDON C-3 missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operations.

21 DECEMBER 1973

• USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658), the 21st ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, completed C-3 conversion at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

1974

22 JANUARY 1974

• FBM tender USS HUNLEY (AS-31) completed conversion to POSEIDON capability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. The conversion duration for this third tender to be provided with C-3 capability was 9.75 months.

1 FEBRUARY 1974

USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620), the 28th ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, commenced yard availability at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Conversion was scheduled for 17.75 months.

8 FEBRUARY 1974

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) completed the POSEIDON conversion at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The conversion duration for this 22nd SSBN was 16 months.

12 APRIL 1974

• The Gold Crew of USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in Support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

15 MAY 1974

• The Gold Crew of USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

12 JULY 1974

• USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658), the 21st POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol.

3 SEPTEMBER 1974

• FBM tender USS HOLLAND (AS-32) commenced conversion to POSEIDON capability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. The conversion duration of this fourth tender to be provided with C-3 capability was scheduled for 9.75 months.

22 SEPTEMBER 1974

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659), the 22nd POSEIDON carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol. Following C-3 conversion at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, ROGERS launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

22 OCTOBER 1974

• The Blue Crew of USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

7 NOVEMBER 1974

• USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) completed conversion at Electric Boat Division. The conversion duration for this 23rd SSBN was 24.75 months.

22 NOVEMBER 1974

• The Gold Crew of USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in the eighth Operational Test.

16 DECEMBER 1974

• The Blue Crew of USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

1975

15 JANUARY 1975

• USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622), the 29th ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, commenced conversion at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

11 APRIL 1975

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) completed the POSEIDON conversion at Newport Nm Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

18 APRIL 1975

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in support of the C-3 Operational Test Program.

29 APRIL 1975

• USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625), the 30th ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, commenced yard availability at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Conversion was scheduled for 17 months.

28 MAY 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

20 JUNE 1975

• FBM tender USS HOLLAND (AS-32) completed POSEIDON conversion at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Conversion duration was 9.5 months.

23 JUNE 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

24 JUNE 1975

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in a POSEIDON (C-3) Operational Test.

27 JUNE 1975

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) completed conversion to POSEIDON (C-3) capability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. HALE was the 25th SSBN to be provided with POSEIDON (C-3) capability. The conversion was completed in 24.5 months.

3O JUNE 1975

• USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616), the 23rd POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol.

7 AUGUST 1975

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) completed conversion to POSEIDON (C-3) capability at Electric Boat Division, Groton, Conn. JACKSON was the 26th SSBN to be provided with C-3 capability. The conversion was completed in 28.75 months.

22 AUGUST 1975

• USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) successfully launched three POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

29 AUGUST 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched two POSElDON (C–3) missiles In an Operational Test.

24 SEPTEMBER 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown operation.

10 OCTOBER 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) successfully launched one Poseidon (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

23 OCTOBER 1975

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624), the 27th in the POSEIDON conversion program, completed availability at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. Conversion duration was 25 months.

8 NOVEMBER 1975

• The Blue Crew of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

13 NOVEMBER 1975

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in an Operational Test.

1976

3 FEBRUARY 1976

• USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643) successfully conducted a POSEIDON (C-3) Operational Test.

14 FEBRUARY 1976

• The Gold Crew of USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

7 MARCH 1976

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623), the 26th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol.

23 MARCH 1976

• The first POSEIDON conversion overhaul of USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) commenced at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The overhaul was scheduled for a 16-month duration.

15 APRIL 1976

• POSEIDON (C-3) conversion of USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620), the last ship in the FY 1974 Conversion program, was completed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

20 APRIL 1976

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

23 APRIL 1976

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an operational Test.

25 MAY 1976

• The Blue Crew of USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile In support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

30 MAY 1976

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) deployed for operational patrol. During pre-deployment exercises, JACKSON successfully launched a POSEIDON missile during DASO.

22 JUNE 1976

• USS VON STEUBEN (SSBN 682) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

26 JUNE 1976

• USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) successfully launched two POSEID0N (C3) missiles in an Operational Test.

2 AUGUST 1976

• The first SSBN Extended Refit Period (ERP) at the Rota, Spain, tender refit site was completed on USS GEORGE BANCROFT (SSBN 643).

4 AUGUST 1976

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624), the 27th POSEIDON-carrying SSBN, deployed for operational patrol. During the pre-deployment period, WILSON successfully launched a POSEIDON missile during DASO.

20 AUGUST 1976

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

28 AUGUST 1976

• USS SIMON BOLIVAR (SSBN 641) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

23 NOVEMBER 1976

• USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in an Operational Test.

1977

28 JANUARY 1977

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in a Follow-on Operational Test

4 FEBRUARY 1977

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in a Follow-on Operational Test.

23 FEBRUARY 1977

• With the completion of a patrol of USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) and the return to the Rota, Spain, tender refit site, a total of 1500 POLARIS/POSEIDON patrols were successfully completed. This equated to nearly 250 continuous years of submerged deterrence. No patrols had been aborted for deficiency in weapon system operational support.

24 MARCH 1977

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in a Follow-on Operational Test.

30 MARCH 1977

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C-3) missiles in a Follow-on Operational Test.

14 MAY 1977

• Conversion of USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) was completed at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. This 29th C-3 conversion was completed in 28 months.

24 MAY 1977

• The 400th POSEIDON (C-3) patrol was completed by USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) upon its return to the Rota, Spain, tender refit site.

1 JUNE 1977

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) commenced overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company. Overhaul was scheduled for 17 months.

29 JULY 1977

• USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625), the 30th ship in the POSEIDON conversion program, completed availability at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Conversion duration was 27 months.

3 AUGUST 1977

• The Blue Crew USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration Shakedown Operation (DASO).

6 SEPTEMBER 1977

• The Blue Crew of USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C-3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation (DASO).

27 SEPTEMBER 1977

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) commenced overhaul at Portsmouth Naval shipyard.

14 DECEMBER 1977

• USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) deployed following POSEIDON (C-3) overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company.

1978

1 FEBRUARY 1978

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) commenced the POSEIDON overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

21 FEBRUARY 1978

• USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626), the 31st and final SSBN to be provided with POSEIDON (C-3) capability, completed conversion at Electric Boat, Groton, Conn. Conversion duration was 27 months.

24 MARCH 1978

• USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) completed overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This was the first overhaul completion of a POSEIDON submarine. Overhaul duration was 24 months.

29 MARCH 1978

• The Blue Crew of USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

1 APRIL 1978

• USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON conversion.

12 APRIL 1978

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

24 APRIL 1978

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

25 APRIL 1978

• The turnover between FBM tenders USS SIMON LAKE (AS-33) and USS HUNLEY (AS-31) was completed at Site IV in Charleston, SC. Following offload at POMFLANT, USS HUNLEY proceeded to the Brasslant Command for a 41-day drydock capability test, commencing for a drydock POSEIDON retrofit from POLARIS before commencing C3 capability at the Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC.

12 MAY 1978

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

15 MAY 1978

• The Blue Crew of USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

21 MAY 1978

• USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

8 JULY 1978

• The 500th POSEIDON (C3) patrol was completed by USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) upon its return to the Rota, Spain, tender refit site.

7 AUGUST 1978

• USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) commenced POSEIDON overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

16 SEPTEMBER 1978

• USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON conversion.

22 SEPTEMBER 1978

• USS FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (SSBN 657) entered drydock at the FBM Support Site, Charleston, SC, to begin phase IV of the TRIDENT I (C4) Backfit Industrial. The ship was to remain in drydock until 14 October 1978 and then transit to Cape Canaveral, FL, for the remainder of the industrial phase.

18 OCTOBER 1978

• USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

22 DECEMBER 1978

• USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) completed POSEIDON overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

1979

26 JANUARY 1979

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) commenced POSEIDON overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

31 JANUARY 1979

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) completed POSEIDON overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

19 FEBRUARY 1979

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

5 MARCH 1979

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

2 MARCH 1979

• USS SIMON BOLIVAR (SSBN 641) commenced overhaul and conversion to TRIDENT I capability at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH. This was the first shipyard overhaul to include conversion to Trident I (C4).

23 MARCH 1979

• The Gold Crew of USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

26 MAY 1979

• The Gold Crew of USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

27 JUNE 1979

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) completed POSEIDON overhaul at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

2 JULY 1979  

• FBM tender USS SIMON LAKE (AS-33) arrived at Kings Bay to provide POSEIDON (C3) and TRIDENT I (C4) tender service.

10 JULY 1979  

• USS JOHN C. CALHOUN (SSBN 630) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

3 AUGUST 1979  

• USS JAMES MADISON (SSBN 627) commenced overhaul and conversion to TRIDENT I capability at the Newport News Shipbuilding Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

18 AUGUST 1979  

• USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658) completed her last POSEIDON operational patrol.

31 AUGUST 1979  

• Electrostatically Supported Gyro Monitor (ESGM) equipment was shipped to the USS HOLLAND (AS-32) for installation on USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629). SSBN 629 was to be the first SSBN to have the ESGM installed by a tender.

7 SEPTEMBER 1979  

• USS MARIANO G. VALLEJO (SSBN 658) commenced Part I of the industrial phase of the TRIDENT I (C4) Backfit Program at the FBM Support Site in Charleston, SC. SSBN 658 was the second POSEIDON SSBN to be back-fitted pier side.

17 SEPTEMBER 1979

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

23 OCTOBER 1979

• The Gold Crew of USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

12 NOVEMBER 1979

• USS BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640) commenced overhaul and conversion to TRIDENT I capability at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

4 DECEMBER 1979

• USS HENRY L. STIMSON (SSBN 655) commenced Part I of the industrial phase of the TRIDENT I (C4) Pierisde Backfit Program at the FBM Support Site IV in Charleston, SC. SSBN 655 was the third POSEIDON SSBN to be backfitted pierside.

1980s

1980

31 JANUARY 1980

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

2 FEBRUARY 1980

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched three POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

4 FEBRUARY 1980

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C3) missile during a Follow-on Operational Test.

13 FEBRUARY 1980

• The Gold Crew of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

28 MARCH 1980

• USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) completed POSEIDON overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

21 APRIL 1980

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during an Operational Test.

26 MAY 1980

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

11 JULY 1980

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

14 JULY 1980

• The Gold Crew of USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) successfully launched one POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

20 AUGUST 1980

• The Blue Crew of USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

15 NOVEMBER 1980  

• USS STONEWALL JACKSON (SSBN 634) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

1981

13 MARCH 1981  

• The Chief of Naval Operations approved a Naval Sea Systems Command recommendation for an extension of the POSEIDON SSBN 616 Class operating cycle to 12 years.

1 APRIL 1981  

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) commenced POSEIDON overhaul at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

24 APRIL 1981  

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) completed POSEIDON overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

19 JUNE 1981  

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

27 JUNE 1981  

• USS JAMES POLK (SSBN 645) returned to port, marking the completion of the 2000th SSBN deterrent patrol.

11 JULY 1981  

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

23 JULY 1981  

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) commenced refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

22 AUGUST 1981  

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

1982

28 FEBRUARY 1982  

• The Blue Crew of USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during an Operational Test.

25 MAY 1982

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) Blue Crew successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during an Operational Test.

26 JUNE 1982  

• The Gold Crew of USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during an Operational Test.

7 NOVEMBER 1982  

• The USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) commenced a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

9 DECEMBER 1982

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) completed POSEIDON overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

31 DECEMBER 1982

• By the end of FY 82, a total of 2119 POLARIS (A3)/POSEIDON (C3)/TRIDENT I (C4) Fleet Ballistic Missile strategic deterrent patrols were successfully completed.

1983

10 JANUARY 1983

• The Gold Crew of USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

22 MARCH 1983

• The Gold Crew of USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

8 APRIL 1983

• The Gold Crew of USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation. This was the 50th POSEIDON Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

21 APRIL 1983

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) completed a nonrefueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

29 MAY 1983

• USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) completed a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

24 JUNE 1983

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) deployed for operational patrol following POSEIDON overhaul.

23 JULY 1983

• The Gold Crew of USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of its Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

28 JULY 1983

• The Blue Crew of USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

2 SEPTEMBER 1983  

• The Gold Crew of USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

12 OCTOBER 1983  

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) deployed for operational patrol following nonrefueling overhaul.

13 OCTOBER 1983  

• The Blue Crew of USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

24 OCTOBER 1983

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) commenced a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

29 NOVEMBER 1983

• USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

13 DECEMBER 1983

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) completed a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

1984

16 JANUARY 1984

• USS CANOPUS (AS-34) commenced overhaul at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC. This overhaul was to include reconfiguration to dual C3/C4 capability.

1 FEBRUARY 1984

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) commenced a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

19 MARCH 1984

• The Gold Crew of the USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of its Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

7 APRIL 1984

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) completed a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

9 APRIL 1984

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

1 MAY 1984

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) commenced a refueling overhaul at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

22 JUNE 1984

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

29 JUNE 1984

• USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

24 JULY 1984 

• The Gold Crew of USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of its Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

11 OCTOBER 1984 

• USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

1985

6 MARCH 1985  

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

13 JUNE 1985  

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

23 JUNE 1985

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) completed a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA.

10 AUGUST 1985

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

21 AUGUST 1985

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) commenced final strategic offload prior to dismantlement. This was the first POSEIDON (C3) submarine to be retired in compliance with SALT.

2 SEPTEMBER 1985

• USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626) successfully launched two POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

16 SEPTEMBER 1985

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) commenced dismantlement.

30 OCTOBER 1985  

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

1986

15 JANUARY 1986  

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) commenced a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

10 MARCH 1986  

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) completed a refueling overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA.

29 APRIL 1986  

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) commenced an inactivation availability at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA.

20 MAY 1986  

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) Blue Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

29 MAY 1986  

• The Technical Director, Strategic Systems Programs, announced that the Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, had signed a contract with Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA, to proceed with the immediate dismantlement of USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) and USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636).

4 JUNE 1986

• USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) Gold Crew successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

12 AUGUST 1986

• USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

30 SEPTEMBER 1986

• USS SAM RAYBURN (SSBN 635) completed dismantlement availability at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC.

27 OCTOBER 1986

• USS NATHAN HALE (SSBN 623) completed an inactivation availability at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA.

4 NOVEMBER 1986

• USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on Operational Test.

30 NOVEMBER 1986

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) commenced a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

30 NOVEMBER 1986

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) commenced a refueling overhaul at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA. She was the first 12-year extended operating cycle (EOC) SSBN to enter overhaul and the first SSBN scheduled to receive an Enhanced Integrated Logistics Overhaul (EILO), in lieu of the usual Supply Overhaul Assistance Program (SOAP). This was the last FBM overhaul to be performed by Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA.

11 DECEMBER 1986

• USS NATHANAEL GREENE (SSBN 636) completed dismantlement availability at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, VA.

1987

31 JANUARY 1987

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) Blue Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

11 JUNE 1987

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) completed a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

30 JULY 1987

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624) commenced a refueling overhaul at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC.

31 JULY 1987

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) Blue Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

12 SEPTEMBER 1987  

• The Gold Crew of USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during the 59th POSEIDON Follow-on Operational Test.

16 OCTOBER 1987  

• The Gold Crew of USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during the 60th POSEIDON Follow-on Operational Test

1988

7 JANUARY 1988

• Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Newport News, VA, was awarded two ERP contracts for the refits of USS LEWIS AND CLARK (SSBN 644) and USS GEORGE C. MARSHALL (SSBN 654).

15 JANUARY 1988

• FY 88 Congressional action deleted the overhaul of USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619). The following year’s overhaul of USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) was deleted by the Navy in the FY 89 Amended Budget Submission. Both USS ANDREW JACKSON and USS JOHN ADAMS would continue to operate on their schedules, which included strategic offload and retirement, in lieu of overhaul.

1 APRIL 1988

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) successfully launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during the 61st POSEIDON (C3) Follow-on Operational Test.

1 OCTOBER 1988

• USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) commenced inactivation at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA.

29 NOVEMBER 1988

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) completed a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

1989

9 MARCH 1989

• USS JAMES K. POLK (SSBN 645) Blue Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

17 MARCH 1989

• With the arrival of USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) Blue Crew from patrol #63 at Holy Loch, Scotland, a total of 1100 POSEIDON (C3) deterrent patrols had been successfully completed.

17 APRIL 1989

• Patrol 2700 was completed by the Blue Crew of USS ALASKA (SSBN 732). This marked the ninth patrol by USS ALASKA. The 2700 patrols comprise 119 TRIDENT patrols, 1245 POLARIS patrols, 1103 POSEIDON patrols, and 233 C4 Backfit patrols.

7 JULY 1989  

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) completed a refueling overhaul at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA.

26 JULY 1989  

• USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) completed her last patrol prior to dismantlement at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC.

6 SEPTEMBER 1989  

• USS ANDREW JACKSON (SSBN 619) completed an inactivation availability at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC.

29 SEPTEMBER 1989  

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) Blue Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in support of the ship’s Demonstration and Shakedown Operation.

5 DECEMBER 1989

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) deployed for operational patrol following refueling overhaul.

23 DECEMBER 1989

• The USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) completed a refueling overhaul at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, NH.

1990s

1990

5 JANUARY 1990

• The Chief of Naval Operations approved a 2-month delay in the start of the inactivation of USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626). USS DANIEL WEBSTER was scheduled to be the second Moored Training Ship (MTS-626).

31 JANUARY 1990

• USS JOHN ADAMS (SSBN 620) completed an inactivation availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA.

5 FEBRUARY 1990

• USS JAMES MONROE (SSBN 622), one of the three ships scheduled for dismantlement in FY 90, began dismantlement at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA. Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC, would begin dismantlement of USS HENRY CLAY (SSBN 625) in March and USS DANIEL WEBSTER (SSBN 626) in September.

24 MARCH 1990

• USS DANIEL BOONE (SSBN 629) Blue Crew launched four POSEIDON (C3) missiles during a Follow-on CINC Evaluation Test off the Eastern Test Range (ETR), Cape Canaveral, FL.

29 APRIL 1990

• USS WOODROW WILSON (SSBN 624) completed a refueling overhaul at Charleston Naval Shipyard, Charleston, SC. Following overhaul, the SSN 624 began a new mission as a Fast Attack Submarine with a single crew.

30 APRIL 1990

• USS KAMEHAMEHA (SSBN 642) Gold Crew successfully launched a POSEIDON (C3) missile in a Demonstration and Shakedown Operation (DASO). This was the last POSEIDON (C3) DASO and the end of the POSEIDON flight test program.

1991

15 JANUARY 1991

• USS LAFAYETTE (SSBN 616) entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA, to begin her inactivation availability prior to dismantlement.

30 APRIL 1991

• The Head of the Training Systems Branch announced that the POSEIDON (C3) training missile was being removed from the missile tube at the Charleston Training Center, Charleston, SC, from 29 April through 3 May 1991. This effectively terminated much of the training for the POSEIDON program and signaled that the POSEIDON program was coming to an end.

1 OCTOBER 1991

• USS KAMEHAMEHA and USS ULYSSES S. GRANT conducted the last Poseidon C3 patrols. Standdown of the POSEIDON C3 weapon system occurred on 1 October 1991. During the 20-1/2 years since IOC, a total of 1182 POSEIDON C3 patrols were accomplished.

1992

11 FEBRUARY 1992

• USS GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER (SSBN 656) entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA, to begin her inactivation availability prior to dismantlement.

14 FEBRUARY 1992

• USS ULYSSES S. GRANT (SSBN 631) entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA, to begin her inactivation availability prior to dismantlement.

1 JUNE 1992

• Captain Ronald Gumbert, the last of the 19 SUBRON 14 Commanders, retired the pennant of the last and longest-serving POLARIS/POSEIDON squadron. The Holy Loch Refit site was established in March 1961.
• The U.S. nuclear submarine base at Holy Loch, Scotland, closed. The base at Holy Loch was opened on 1 November 1960 and the first POLARIS submarine sailed in on 8 March 1961. The Navy closed the base because it was replacing the obsolete POSEIDON missile submarines that used it for repairs and services with longer-range TRIDENT boats. The tender USS SIMON LAKE and the floating drydock under the command of the Commander in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, had been returned to the U.S. The base housed about 2000 American personnel with 1600 dependents and employed about 150 Scottish workers.

23 JUNE 1992

• The POLARIS Missile Facility, Atlantic, completed the assembly of their final missile. The facility has provided strategic missiles to the FBM fleet for over 30 years. They continued to support the program as an offload and storage site.

16 SEPTEMBER 1992

• USS TECUMSEH (SSBN 628) completed the final offload of C3 missiles at POLARIS Missile Facility, Atlantic.

1 OCTOBER 1992

• USS ALEXANDER HAMILTON (SSBN 617) entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA, to begin her inactivation availability prior to dismantlement.

2 NOVEMBER 1992

• The USS WILL ROGERS (SSBN 659) entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WA, to begin their inactivation availability prior to dismantlement.

Further reading

• Poseidon C-3 (UGM-73)
• Trident I (C-4) Missile Chronology
• Trident II (D5) Missile Chronology
• United States Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBM)
• United States Nuclear Ballistic Missile Submarines (SSBN)

Bibliography

• Facts/Chronology: Polaris, Poseidon, Trident, 50th Anniversary, Strategic Systems Programs, 2005
• Croddy, E. A., Wirtz, J. J. (2005). Weapons of Mass Destruction [2 Volumes]: An Encyclopedia of Worldwide Policy, Technology, and History [2 Volumes]. United Kingdom: Bloomsbury Publishing.
• Nicklas, B. D. (2012). American Missiles: The Complete Smithsonian Field Guide. United Kingdom: Pen & Sword Books.
• Friedman, N. (1982). U.S. naval weapons: every gun, missile, mine, and torpedo used by the U.S. Navy from 1883 to the present day. United Kingdom: Naval Institute Press.
• Gunston, B. (1979). The Illustrated Encyclopedia of the World’s Rockets & Missiles: A Comprehensive Technical Directory and History of the Military Guided Missile Systems of the 20th Century. United Kingdom: Salamander Books.
• Gibson, J. N. (1996). Nuclear Weapons of the United States: An Illustrated History. United States: Schiffer Pub.