U.S. Air Force schedules unarmed Minuteman III ICBM test launch from Vandenberg base

By Defence Industry Europe

The U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command has scheduled an operational test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) for 21 May, between 12:01 and 5:01 a.m. Pacific Time, from north Vandenberg. The launch is part of a long-standing programme to demonstrate the readiness and reliability of the United States’ nuclear forces.

 

According to Air Force Global Strike Command, the purpose of the ICBM test launch programme is to provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent. This test is routine, having been scheduled years in advance, and is consistent with previous launches aimed at validating the system’s performance.

 

 

The launch will assess the accuracy, effectiveness, and operational readiness of the Minuteman III system. It forms a key part of ongoing efforts to ensure the credibility and functionality of U.S. strategic capabilities.

 

Source: U.S. Air Force.

 

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