US Military Flexes Nuclear Muscle with Minuteman III ICBM Test Launch
In a display of its nuclear capabilities, the U.S. military successfully launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Wednesday. The test, which sent the missile soaring 4,200 miles to the Marshall Islands, is designed to showcase the readiness and effectiveness of the nation's nuclear deterrent.
The launch, which originated from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time, was part of a routine exercise planned months in advance. According to a statement from U.S. Space Force's Space Launch Delta, the test "is not a response to current world events," but rather a demonstration of the United States' commitment to maintaining a strong and credible nuclear deterrent.
The Minuteman III ICBM, a cornerstone of the U.S. nuclear triad, is slated to be phased out by 2030, replaced by the next-generation LGM-35 Sentinel, currently under development by Northrop Grumman. This ongoing modernization effort highlights the U.S. commitment to staying ahead in the evolving landscape of global security.
General Thomas Bussiere, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, emphasized the importance of the ICBM leg of the nuclear triad, stating, "This ICBM test launch underscores the strength of the nation's nuclear deterrent and the readiness of the ICBM leg of the triad."
The test involved an unarmed Mark-21 reentry vehicle traveling a considerable distance to the U.S. Army's Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Kwajalein Atoll, part of the Marshall Islands. While the Minuteman III is capable of deploying multiple independent reentry vehicles (MIRVs) containing nuclear warheads, it hasn't carried multiple warheads since 2014, in compliance with arms reduction treaties. The ICBM has an officially stated range of over 6,000 miles
In line with international protocols, Washington notified Moscow of the test in advance, adhering to existing bilateral obligations and the Hague Code of Conduct (HCoC), further demonstrating transparency in its operations.
With tensions rising globally, the U.S. aims to reassure allies and deter potential adversaries. The demonstration of a reliable and effective nuclear deterrent remains a key element of national security.
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