Air Force Launches ICBM From California In Nuclear Readiness Test

The US Air Force conducted a successful test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base early Wednesday morning. The launch, which took place around 1 a.m., was part of a long-running program to assess the effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.

The missile traveled over 4,200 miles at speeds exceeding 15,000 mph before reaching its destination in the Marshall Islands. Officials stated that the test was conducted to verify the system’s accuracy and reliability, ensuring that America’s nuclear arsenal remains fully operational.

Footage of the launch captured the missile blasting into the night sky, leaving behind a fiery trail before disappearing into the distance. This marked one of more than 300 similar tests conducted over the years, as the Air Force continues to monitor and upgrade its nuclear capabilities.

Col. Dustin Harmon, who oversees missile testing operations, said the data gathered from the launch would help validate improvements to the system. The Minuteman III, first deployed in the 1960s, remains a critical part of US defense strategy, though it is set to be replaced by the newer Sentinel missile starting in 2029.

The US military provided advance notice to Russia and other nations under international agreements, a standard procedure meant to maintain stability and prevent misinterpretations of such tests. The Air Force reiterated that the test was scheduled years in advance and was not tied to any current geopolitical tensions.

The US nuclear arsenal, which includes 400 active Minuteman III missiles, remains one of the most powerful deterrents in the world. The Air Force continues to evaluate its missile systems to ensure they meet modern security needs.

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