US To Test Launch Unarmed Minuteman III To Showcase Readiness Of Nuclear Forces
The test aims to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and "provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent".
UNITED STATES - The Vandenberg Space Force base announced on November 1st that it would be conducting a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on November 6th, 2024.
The test aims to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and "provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent", according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled between 11:01 p.m. Pacific Time on Nov. 5 to 5:01 a.m. Pacific Time on Nov. 6 from north Vandenberg.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance. Consistent with previous test launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system.
In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a pre-launch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct, and notified the Russian government in advance, per our existing bi-lateral obligations.