[Launch Alert] Minuteman III Scheduled to Launch

[Launch Alert]

The following is a Vandenberg AFB news release. Questions or comments regarding this release should be directed to the originating organization.


MINUTEMAN III SCHEDULED TO LAUNCH
30th Space Wing Public Affairs / Published July 31, 2017

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug 2, between 12:01 a.m. to 6:01 a.m. PDT from north Vandenberg Air Force Base.

The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness, and accuracy of the weapon system, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.

Col. Michael Hough, 30th Space Wing commander, is the launch decision authority.

"Team V is postured to work with Air Force Global Strike Command to test launch the Minuteman III missile," said Hough. "Our long history in partnering with the men and women of the 576th Flight Test Squadron shows that the Western Range stands ready and able to create a safe launch environment."

The 576th Flight Test Squadron will be responsible for installed tracking, telemetry, and command destruct systems on the missile.