On the night of May 20, the US Air Force test-launched the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile without a warhead from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This was reported by the press service of the US Air Force Global Strike Command.
The launch took place at 00.01 Pacific Time as part of a scheduled test under the designation GT 256.
According to the US Global Strike Command, the launch is a comprehensive test to evaluate the reliability of the missile system and the training of its personnel. During the test, engineers monitored the missile's flight, checking the operation of the engines, guidance systems and warhead under extreme load conditions.
“Operational testing like this is the clearest and most important way to validate the readiness of our systems. And more importantly, they reflect the unparalleled skill and dedication of our military personnel who ensure this critical mission is accomplished every day,” said Col. Dustin Garmon, 377th Test and Evaluation Group commander.
The tests are being carried out against the background of the modernization of American strategic forces, in particular the transition to the new LGM-35A Sentinel missile, which should gradually replace the Minuteman III.
The command noted that the tests were planned in advance and are not related to the current international situation. However, the day before, the aggressor country of the Russian Federation, following Belarus, began nuclear military exercises, which take place from May 19 to 21. They involve missile forces, strategic aviation, navy and parts of Russian land districts.
The stated goal is to test actions using nuclear forces under conditions of the “threat of aggression” and test command and control systems and troop readiness. In total, tens of thousands of military personnel and more than 200 missile launchers are taking part in the exercises.
