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Update by the Vandenberg Space Force Base
September 7, 2022
An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base Wednesday, Sept. 7, at 1:13 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the safety, security, effectiveness, and readiness of the weapon system, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
Col. Bryan Titus, Space Launch Delta 30 vice commander, was the launch decision authority.
“The Airmen and Guardians who perform this vital mission are some of the most skillfully trained and dedicated personnel in America’s Air and Space Force,” said Titus. “These test launches demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.”
For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg SFB range operations, contact Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or SLD30.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.
For queries regarding the ICBM test launch mission and missile, contact AFGSC Public Affairs at 318-456-1305 (After Hours 318-532-1215) or afgsc.paworkflow@us.af.mil.
By the Vandenberg Space Force Base
September 6, 2022
Unarmed Minuteman III Test Launch to Showcase Readiness of U.S. Nuclear Force’s Safe, Effective Deterrent
A scheduled, operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is planned for Wednesday, Sept. 7 from 12:01 a.m. to 6:01 a.m. Pacific Time from north Vandenberg. This test launch is a routine test scheduled years far in advance. Consistent with previous tests launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness and readiness and accuracy of the weapon system.
In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a pre-launch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct, and notified the Russian government in advance, pursuant to New START treaty obligations.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and safety, security and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
