The evaluation demonstrated the wing’s operational proficiency, mission readiness and ability to execute the nation’s land-based nuclear deterrent mission under realistic conditions. The SELM test focused on the performance and coordination of 91st Missile Wing Airmen, including launch control center personnel and supporting maintenance and communications teams.
Airmen worked through full mission procedures without an actual missile launch. They executed launch sequences, command and control protocol, and communication processes designed to mirror the operational environment.
Throughout the evaluation, 91st Missile Wing missileers, maintainers and defenders demonstrated their ability to respond rapidly to simulated launch directives. They also maintained secure and reliable communications and followed operational procedures under the test conditions.
The exercise provided a detailed assessment of launch control center functionality and missile alert facility operations. It also assessed the integration of critical support systems that enable the wing’s continuous deterrence mission.
“SELM testing is a critical assessment of our readiness and precision within the nuclear enterprise. It ensures that every link in the launch chain, from operators to command and control, performs exactly as designed under realistic conditions,” said Col. Jimmy Schlabach, 91st MW commander. “By rigorously executing SELM evaluations, we sustain a credible, safe and effective nuclear force that underpins national security and reinforces deterrence every day.”
Personnel from the 377th Test and Evaluation Group worked alongside Airmen from the 91st Missile Wing to plan, execute and assess the test. The group provides independent operational testing and evaluation support for the Air Force’s intercontinental ballistic missile enterprise.
SELM tests are conducted periodically across the ICBM enterprise to verify the readiness and reliability of personnel and systems responsible for the nation’s strategic deterrence mission. The evaluations provide valuable data that supports continuous improvement and helps maintain high standards of operational excellence.
For the 91st Missile Wing, the exercise was an opportunity to demonstrate sustained proficiency and disciplined execution of procedures. The test also helped strengthen the reliability of the wing’s alert force.
“The partnership between the 91 MW and the 377 TEG reflects the highest standards of integration and mission focus across the nuclear enterprise,” said Maj. Anastasia Peterson, 91st Missile Wing Operations Support Squadron assistant director of operations. “The teamwork demonstrated throughout this test shows how operational expertise and test and evaluation come together to strengthen readiness.”
The collaboration with the 377th Test and Evaluation Group highlighted the 91st Missile Wing’s commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence in support of national security objectives. The 91st Missile Wing remains a key part of the nation’s nuclear deterrence mission, with Airmen maintaining around-the-clock readiness to support strategic stability and mission assurance.
