US launches Minuteman III missile; test verifies ICBM’s propulsion, guidance, re-entry systems

The U.S. Air Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III ICBM from Vandenberg Space Force Base in a routine operational test.

The flight was used to evaluate the missile’s propulsion, guidance, re-entry systems, and overall support performance.

Officials said the launch also provided data to help maintain the aging Minuteman III fleet.

The test comes as the U.S. prepares to replace the Minuteman III with the Sentinel missile under the nuclear modernization plan.