Air Force Global Strike Command is scheduled to conduct an operational test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile between 12:01 a.m. and 6:01 a.m. Pacific Time on May 20 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
This routine launch, designated GT 256, was scheduled years ago and is not in response to world events.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system, according to AFGSC.
Air Force test launched ICBM this week, part of longstanding testing program
The missile being used in this test launch was pulled from the 341st Missile Wing complex at Malmstrom Air Force Base.
The Air Force rotates between the three missile wings to pull a missile for test launches.
Maintenance support for the test launch is also from Malmstrom.
Air Force launches unarmed ICBM as part of routine, pre-planned test [2025]
The launch crew includes a mix of airmen from all three missile wings: Malmstrom, F.E. Warren AFB in Wyoming and Minot AFB in North Dakota.
The last test launch was conducted in March.
The Air Force typically conducts three to four ICBM test launches annually.
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The test launches are a key component of a data-driven program over decades, involving more than 300 similar tests designed to validate the Minuteman III system’s performance. The data is used for ongoing and future force development, according to AFGSC.
The Air Force is maintaining the Minuteman III ICBM system while transitioning to the new Sentinel ground-based strategic deterrent.
