US has successfully test-fired Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. PHOTO
The United States has conducted a test launch of a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) without a nuclear warhead, stating that "this is not a response to global events".
This was reported by the US Air Force Global Strike Command, according to Censor.NET.
Test details
The launch took place from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The US command specifically emphasised that these tests were scheduled, had been agreed "long ago" and were not a direct response to current geopolitical events in the world.
"Our ability to conduct such rigorous, realistic tests is fundamental to our national security. This launch confirms the serviceability and combat readiness of our intercontinental ballistic missiles," said US Army General S. L. Davis.
The missile travelled approximately 6,800 km and successfully struck its target at a test range in the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean.
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System checks: Engineers tracked the entire flight path to assess the missile’s performance, test the guidance systems and evaluate the warhead’s endurance under extreme conditions.
The military confirmed the system’s accuracy, noting that the missile is capable of delivering its warhead to a designated target with "pinnacle precision".
"The test launch of the missile is the culmination of extensive preparations. We have been and will always be ready," General Davis concluded.
About the missile
- The Minuteman III is a key element of the land-based component of the US strategic nuclear triad and is on combat duty with the US Army.
It should be noted that the tests took place the day after Russia began large-scale exercises involving hundreds of nuclear-armed vehicles.
