In a show of strength, the U.S. has once again tested its Minuteman III ICBMs

The reentry vehicle of the ICBM traveled 4,200 miles (6,759 km) to the Marshall Islands' Kwajalein Atoll. These test launches confirm the precision and dependability of the ICBM weapon system and offer important information for maintaining a safe, secure, and efficient nuclear deterrence.

“Make no mistake - our nuclear triad is the cornerstone of the national security of our country and of our allies around the globe,“ said Col. Chris Cruise, 576th Flight Test Squadron Commander.

“This scheduled test launch is demonstrative of how our nation’s ICBM fleet illustrates our readiness and reliability of the weapon system. It is also a great platform to show the skill sets and expertise of our strategic weapons maintenance personnel and of our missile crews who maintain an unwavering vigilance to defend the homeland,“ he added.

The test launch marks the conclusion of months of planning involving numerous government partners. Some of the Air Force's best-trained and educated airmen are those who carry out this crucial task.

The task force to assist with the test launch was chosen from among airmen from the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana; the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyoming; and the 91st Missile Wing at Minot AFB, North Dakota. Crews who live at the three missile bases run the nation's ICBM alert forces around the clock, every day of the year.

“Our test launches are scheduled well in advance and are not reactionary to world events,“ said Maj. Armand Wong, Task Force commander. “A meticulous planning process for each launch begins six months to a year prior to launch. Our best Airmen from each of the three missile wings worked in conjunction with the 576th Flight Test Squadron to proudly showcase some very technical skills that comprise the heart of our nuclear deterrence mission.“

The test was a complete success

The ICBM community, which is made up of the Departments of Defense, Energy, and U.S. Strategic Command, uses data from test launches to evaluate the development of the force on an ongoing basis. The ICBM test launch program shows how well the Minuteman III can work and guarantees that the United States can continue to retain a potent nuclear deterrent as a crucial component of its own national security as well as the security of its allies and partners.

Major Command Air Force Global Strike Command is based at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana. The Air Force's entire bomber force, including the B-52, B-1, and B-2 wings; the Long Range Strike Bomber program; the Air Force Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications systems; and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise are all under the command's aegis. 33,700 professionals are deployed to sites all over the world and assigned to two numbered air forces, nine wings, two geographically distinct squadrons, and one detachment in the continental United States.

The LG-35A Sentinel will replace the Minuteman III ICBM. It will be ready to go into service in 2029. The Air Force is dedicated to making sure Minuteman III continues to function as a deterrent until full capability is attained in the middle of the 2030s.