[Launch Alert] Upcoming Launches

[Launch Alert]

Two launches are scheduled from Vandenberg SFB in the next several days. They are:

• Falcon 9 / Transporter 7 mission, April 10 11:48 p.m. PDT

• Minuteman III, APR 19-20 11:47 p.m. - 5:47 a.m. PDT


The following is a Vandenberg SFB news release about the Minuteman launch:

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for April 19 from 11:47 p.m. to April 20, 5:47 a.m. Pacific Time from north Vandenberg.

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 effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.

This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance. Consistent with previous test launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, 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, per our existing bi-lateral obligations.