Vandenberg Plans Routine Test Launch Of A Minuteman Missile
Monday February 17, 2025
(File photo Vandenberg SFB)
What's being described as "an operational launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman intercontinental missile" is set for late Tuesday night to just before dawn Wednesday morning.
The purpose of what is considered a routine test "is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation's nuclear deterrent."
The test is not only routine but scheduled long in advance.
And under standard procedures the United States gives Russia advance notice of the launch.
The launch from Vandenberg SFB in northwestern Santa Barbara County is set for sometime between 11:01 PM Tuesday and 5:01 AM Wednesday.
The ICBM will likely be headed to a target in the central pacific.
