[Launch Alert] Minuteman III Launches from Vandenberg

[Launch Alert]

The following is a Vandenberg AFB news release. For questions or comments about this release, contact the originating organization.

  
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
From: 30th Space Wing Public Affairs, www.vandenberg.af.mil

MINUTEMAN III LAUNCHES FROM VANDENBERG

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - An unarmed Minuteman III
intercontinental ballistic missile was launched during an operational test
at 12:03 a.m., PDT, here April 26.

Col. John Moss, 30th Space Wing commander, was the launch decision
authority.

"Tonight's launch was an important demonstration of our nation's nuclear
deterrent capability," said Moss. "Test launches like this one are vital to
validating the effectiveness and readiness of our operational nuclear
systems, so it is critical that they are successful. The men and women of
the 30th Space Wing and Air Force Global Strike Command's 576th Flight Test
Squadron did a fantastic job working together to make tonight's launch
possible and successful."

The Minuteman system has been in service for 60 years. Through continuous
upgrades, including new production versions, improved targeting systems, and
enhanced accuracy, today's Minuteman system remains state-of-the art and is
capable of meeting all modern challenges.