Vandenberg Air Force Base tests Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile
VANDENBERG AFB, Calif - An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was launched during a developmental test at 12:33 a.m. Wednesday at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
The launch is the first Vandenber has hosted since becoming part of the United States Space Force.
“Our Airmen remain laser-focused on the flawless execution of our launch and range missions,” said Col. Anthony Mastalir, 30th Space Wing commander. “I am extremely proud of the continued collaboration between the 30th Space Wing and the 576th Flight Test Squadron, culminating in another successful demonstration of our steadfast commitment to mission success.”
The ICBM could be seen far and wide streaking across the clear night skies over the Central Coast after it was launched early this morning from one of the underground silos at VAFB.
We're waiting to hear if the missile hit its intended mock target more than 4,000 miles out over the central Pacific Ocean. The land-based Minuteman III tests are conducted regularly every year at VAFB with each missile costing about $7,000,000.00.
The ICBM tests are conducted and supervised by the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command.
