US launches Minuteman III ICBM with test warhead using E-6B Mercury doomsday aircraft

The U.S. Navy and Air Force jointly test-fired the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It was equipped with a test warhead.

Here's What We Know

The Minuteman III was launched from U.S. Space Force Base Vandenberg, California, at 4:11 p.m. (EET) on April 19. The base press office says the test launch is part of a routine activity aimed at demonstrating the readiness of the U.S. nuclear deterrent.

The test launch of the ICBM demonstrated that the US nuclear deterrent is safe, reliable, effective and capable of responding to 21st century threats. The US has conducted more than 300 such tests. The previous launch of the Minuteman III was in February 2023.

The ICBM launch was commanded by the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS) from an E-6B Mercury doomsday aircraft. ALCS is operated by specialists from the U.S. Air Force and Strategic Command's Global Strike Command (STRATCOM) 625th Strategic Missile Squadron.

The Minuteman III warhead flew nearly 4,200 miles (6,759 km) before crashing off Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The test launch confirmed the reliability and accuracy of the ICBM and provided additional information to ensure an effective nuclear deterrent.

Source: Vandenberg Space Force Base