Unarmed Minuteman ICBM launch tests new re-entry vehicle

An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a test re-entry vehicle has launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

The launch involved a Hi Fidelity Joint Test Assembly re-entry vehicle that detonated non-nuclear conventional explosives prior to hitting the surface of the water approximately 4,200 miles downrange near Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands.

These test launches by Air Force Global Strike Command verify the accuracy and reliability of the ICBM weapon system, providing valuable data to ensure a continued safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent.

“Test launches are not a response or reaction to world events or regional tensions,” said Aaron Boudreau, Task Force commander. “The launch calendars are built five years in advance, and planning for each individual launch begins six months to a year prior to launch. Our task force is comprised of experts from all three missile wings and they have showcased incredible initiative and flexibility to overcome unforeseen challenges during this worldwide pandemic. We’re honored to conduct this mission in conjunction with the 576th Flight Test Squadron and extremely proud to represent the numerous men and women that support the nuclear deterrence mission.”

The ICBM community, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and US Strategic Command, uses data collected from test launches for continuing force development evaluation.

Northrop Grumman was awarded a $287 million contract by the US Air Force in June to provide engineering services to assist in sustaining the Minuteman III missile system.

The propulsion subsystem support contract, awarded with options, has a contract ceiling of $2.3 billion over 18.5 years, and supports the Air Force’s Minuteman III Systems Directorate, located at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.

The Minuteman III ICBM will remain on alert and ready until its end-of-life – later next decade.

Minuteman will be replaced by Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD), which will be developed and manufactured by Northrop Grumman.

The company was awarded a $13.3 billion GBSD engineering and manufacturing contract last year to begin modernising the US intercontinental ballistic missile system.

An Integrated Baseline Review (IBR) confirmed in April that the project is properly planned and ready for execution. The review was a critical milestone that sets the performance measurement baseline and keeps the programme on track for initial operating capability by 2029.

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