[Launch Alert] Thursday Launch

[Launch Alert]

The following is an Air Force Global Strike Command press release about Thursday morning's launch. Under good conditions, this event could be visible to the unaided eye for more than 250 miles. An interesting display may be visible in some areas about 50 to 35 minutes before sunrise as the Sun's rays illuminate the missile's exhaust at high altitudes.


Headquarters Air Force Global Strike Command
Office of Public Affairs
Barksdale AFB, La. 71110-2279


Sept. 25, 2013
Release 13-09-03
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


MINUTEMAN III TEST LAUNCH SCHEDULED
 
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE,  La. – An operational test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for Sept. 26, between 3:01 a.m. and 9:01 a.m. (PDT) from Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
 
This is the second Minuteman III operational test launch within a week, following the recent test launch Sept. 22.
 
The launches were scheduled by Air Force Global Strike Command to take advantage of range availability.  It also enabled the command to make efficient use of resources by using the same launch team for both launches.
 
The launch team, under the 576th Flight Test Squadron’s direction, includes Airmen from the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., and 91st Missile Wing at Minot AFB, N.D.
 
“We are looking forward to conducting another test of our Minuteman III with partnering organizations,” said Col. Lance Kawane, 576th FTS commander.  “Every test is the culmination of the total team effort.”
 
Air Force Global Strike Command’s 576th FLTS is responsible for tracking and telemetry systems on the missile, which collect mission data and ensure safety requirements are met.  The information obtained during test launches enables planners to ensure continued sustainment of the ICBM program.