Video: US successfully launches Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile - missile without a nuclear warhead - over 6,700km
The United States Air Force's Global Strike Command has conducted another test of the Minuteman III missile. The launch was a success.
Here's What We Know
An unarmed version of the Minuteman III rocket was launched from the U.S. Space Force's Vandenberg Air Force Base on February 9. As part of the test, it flew 6759km. The US military added that the test was not related to current world events.
The launch of the intercontinental ballistic missile is part of a demonstration that nuclear deterrence forces are effective, reliable and safe. The U.S. has conducted similar tests more than 300 times.
The Minuteman III is the only silo-based intercontinental ballistic missile in the United States' nuclear arsenal. The mines are located in Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming. The missile was fielded in 1970. It can hit targets at distances of 12,000 km.
Source: AFGSCA