Vandenberg Space Force Base to test launch unarmed U.S. military nuclear missile
Vandenberg Space Force Base announced the U.S. military will be test-launching an unarmed nuclear missile from northern Santa Barbara County early Wednesday morning.
Southern California residents awake between the scheduled launch hours of 12:01 a.m. and 5:01 a.m. on May 21 might be able to hear or catch a glimpse of the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
Air Force Global Strike Command explained that the test launch of this rocket-propelled weapon is to 'demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces,' and to prove the 'lethality and effectiveness of the nation's nuclear deterrent.'
Past launches of this missile test were also used to collect and analyze performance data to 'evaluate current missile system competencies,' according to U.S. Air Force officials.
Wednesday's launch, which Vandenberg said is routine, 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,' added the Space Force Base.
For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) range operations, contact SLD 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or sld30.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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