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U.S. Air Force showcases nuclear deterrent with another unarmed Minutemen III ICBM test

U.S. Strategic Command

The United States Air Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, during an operational test September 7, 2022. The ICBM, pictured, was equipped with three test reentry vehicles, which traveled about 6,750 kilometers to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands.

The test launch verified the accuracy and reliability of the ICBM strategic weapon system, providing valuable data to ensure a continued safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent, which is essential to the security of the U.S. and its allies. It was the second ICBM test launch in less than a month, following one at Vandenberg on August 16, 2022.

“These test launches demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent,” said Col. Bryan Titus, Space Launch Delta 30 vice commander at Vandenberg.

Airmen from the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, and 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, supported the test launch. Crew members at each base stand alert 24 hours a day, overseeing the nation’s ICBM forces.

The test launch was a culmination of months of preparation involving multiple government partners. Launch calendars are built three to five years in advance, with planning for each launch beginning six months to a year beforehand. Test launches are not a response or reaction to world events or regional tensions.

Agencies including the U.S. Defense Department, the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Strategic Command use test launch data to continually evaluate force development.

Land-based Minuteman III ICBMs are one leg of the nation’s nuclear triad that also includes the U.S. Air Force’s B-2 and B-52H strategic bombers, and the U.S. Navy’s ballistic missile submarines. Each part of the triad provides complementary capabilities and advantages.

ICBMs are the most responsive leg because they can be launched and reach their targets within minutes, creating a nearly insurmountable targeting problem for adversaries.

A new ground-based strategic deterrent, named Sentinel, will replace the Minuteman III ICBMs beginning in 2029. The U.S. Air Force will ensure the Minuteman III remains a viable deterrent until the Sentinel is fully operational by the mid-2030s.

IMAGE CREDIT: AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN QUIJAS/U.S. AIR FORCE

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