Malmstrom Missile Selected for Wednesday's ICBM Test Launch in California
The routine GT-256 test also gathered data for sustainment and modernization planning as the Air Force prepares to replace the aging missile fleet.
- On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the United States Air Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time as part of operational test GT-256.
- Air Force officials stated the routine test was scheduled years ago and is not in response to world events, aiming to evaluate readiness of the ICBM system and its operating personnel.
- The launch occurred shortly after Russia began a three-day nuclear exercise involving more than 64,000 personnel; the Minuteman III traveled approximately 6,800 kilometers during the flight test within its maximum range of around 13,000 kilometers.
- Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, said the test verifies "the health and readiness of our ICBM force," while Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron, confirmed the system's precision.
- Operational testing will continue until the Air Force fully deploys the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel system, with current tests providing data for the Departments of Defense and Energy to support modernization planning.
15 Articles
15 Articles
The States have received a visual launch of the "Minuteman III" rocket without a nuclear fighter part, singing, "not in the name of his underwear".
Malmstrom missile selected for Wednesday's ICBM test launch in California
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – A Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was transported from Malmstrom Air Force Base months ago for a scheduled test launch on Wednesday.
US Launches Nuclear-Capable Minuteman Missile as Russia Begins Strategic Drills
The United States carried out a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on May 20, one day after Russia began large-scale nuclear exercises involving strategic missile forces, submarines, and aviation. We bring you stories from the ground. Your support keeps our team in the field. DONATE NOW According to the US Air Force Global Strike Command, the missile was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Califo…
Air Force launches test flight of Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile
The Air Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from a base in Southern California early Wednesday as part of the service's continuing effort to evaluate the weapon and its crew, officials said.
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