February 19, 2025

U.S. conducts Minuteman III missile test to ensure nuclear deterrence readiness

By Defence Industry Europe

A joint team from the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command successfully launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on 19 February from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. The test, conducted at 1 a.m. Pacific Time, involved a single telemetered joint test assembly re-entry vehicle.

Vandenberg serves as the primary testing ground for the Air Force’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) deterrence programme. This latest launch is part of routine evaluations designed to confirm the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of the United States’ nuclear deterrent.

With over 300 similar tests conducted in the past, officials stress that this launch is not a response to current global events. Instead, it reflects the ongoing commitment to maintaining a credible and effective deterrent against modern security threats.

Acting Secretary of the Air Force Gary Ashworth highlighted the test as a demonstration of the precision and professionalism of the U.S. nuclear forces. He emphasised that the mission reinforces confidence in the nation’s nuclear defence capabilities.

Air Force Global Strike Command’s leader, General Thomas Bussiere, reaffirmed the critical role of the U.S. nuclear triad in national security. He credited the expertise of missile crews and maintenance personnel for ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the country’s ICBM forces.

The 377th Test and Evaluation Group at Vandenberg oversaw the launch, analysing key data points to assess the missile system’s current performance. Colonel Dustin Harmon, commander of the unit, stated that the information gathered supports both current operations and future system enhancements.

The re-entry vehicle travelled approximately 4,200 miles before reaching its target at the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. Data collected from high-fidelity radars and optical sensors will contribute to further refining U.S. missile defence capabilities.

Lieutenant Colonel Casey Rumfelt, the test site’s range director, described the site as a unique national asset supporting a wide range of defence tests. Its strategic location and advanced instrumentation make it integral to assessing U.S. missile system performance.

The test launch was the result of months of preparation and involved personnel from all three Air Force missile wings. Teams from F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, provided maintenance support, demonstrating the continuous operational readiness of the ICBM force.