Navy SSP

Overview

Navy Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) — manages the Navy's most sensitive nuclear weapons program. Mission: 'Provide credible and affordable strategic solutions to the warfighter.' Core programs: (1) Trident II D5/D5LE/D5LE2 submarine-launched ballistic missiles on Ohio-class and Columbia-class SSBNs. (2) W93/Mk7 warhead development. (3) Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missile capability — 'non-nuclear strategic solutions.' (4) UK Dreadnought-class SSBN support. SBSD 2084 — strategic deterrence through 2084. 'Echelon I Regulatory Oversight for the Navy Nuclear Deterrence Mission.' 'Technical Authority on DON Nuclear Weapons and Nuclear Weapons systems.' SSBNs carry 'more than 70 percent of the Nation's operationally deployed nuclear warheads.' CRITICAL FOR PAIS: Pais transferred from NAWCAD (aircraft) to SSP (strategic missiles) in June 2019 — a move from tactical aviation to strategic nuclear weapons. A plasma/fusion researcher at SSP could work on: nuclear weapons effects (plasma physics of warhead detonation), Conventional Prompt Strike (hypersonic plasma physics), advanced strategic systems (fusion-powered submarines?), directed energy for strategic defense, plasma-based countermeasures for ballistic missiles. The trajectory NAWCAD → SSP → Air Force → Space Force shows escalating classification and strategic relevance.

Entity Type: Organization — Navy SSP operates as an institutional actor in the defense/aerospace ecosystem.

Network Relationships

Navy SSP connects to 4 entities in the intelligence network:

Concepts (1):

• ← Pais-SSP-Lockheed Triangle: Pais transferred to SSP June 2019 — same month T5 reported under construction

Persons (1):

• → Dr. Salvatore Pais: Pais transferred to SSP (strategic missiles) June 2019 — escalating classification

Programs (2):

• ← Conventional Prompt Strike: CPS managed by Navy SSP
• ← Navy Plasma Sheath SBIR: Navy SBIR for hypersonic plasma — SSP manages CPS, Pais was at SSP

Source Documents

Intelligence derived from 3 source documents:

• SSP Director's Intent 2023 (ssp.navy.mil)
• Congressional testimony — VADM Johnny Wolfe (March 2023, May 2022, May 2021)
• SECNAV small business presentation — 'SSP Who We Are' (September 2020)