[Launch Alert] Tuesday Morning Launch

[Launch Alert]

The following is a U.S. Air Force news release:

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 Tuesday, Feb. 6, between 11:25 p.m. to 5:25 a.m. PST 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 S. Hough, 30th Space Wing commander, is the launch decision authority.

"An operational test like this is vital to the readiness of our combat ready missile force," said Hough. "Team V is proud to work with Air Force Global Strike Command and the Airmen of the 576th Flight Test Squadron in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of this awesome weapon system, the Minuteman III missile."

The 576th Flight Test Squadron is responsible for installed tracking, telemetry and command destruct systems on the missile, which collect data and ensure safety requirements are met.