The Pentagon maintains the Minuteman III test is unrelated to current global events.
The US military successfully conducted a routine test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of carrying nuclear warheads. This marks the first such test under President Trump’s administration.
The Air Force reported the missile launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Wednesday. The purpose, officials stated, was to verify the safety, security, reliability, and effectiveness of the US nuclear deterrent against 21st-century threats, and to reassure allies.
The Air Force emphasized the launch was not a reaction to current world events, highlighting the over 300 similar tests conducted previously.
According to Col. Dustin Harmon, the test assessed the accuracy and dependability of the existing system while the new Sentinel ICBM is under development. Sentinel, in its early stages, is slated to begin replacing Minuteman between 2029 and 2075.
US officials did not confirm whether Russia, China, or other nuclear powers received prior notification of the test.
First deployed in the 1970s, the Minuteman III remains a cornerstone of US nuclear deterrence. The US maintains 400 operational Minuteman III missiles in underground silos across Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.
The Minuteman III boasts a range of 8,700 miles (14,000 km) and a speed exceeding 15,000 mph (24,000 kph).
The preceding Minuteman III test occurred on November 5th, coinciding with the US presidential election. At that time, officials similarly stated the test was unconnected to geopolitical tensions.