English
Analiza Pathak
Born in Guwahati, raised in Mussoorie and Delhi, She grew up reading magazines more than textbooks. She is an experienced writer/editor and has shifted focus to various aspects of communication. Her a ... Read More
The United States has once again tested its Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile. The launch was carried out on May 21 by a team from the US Air Force Global Strike Command at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. What makes this test significant is that the missile was equipped with a single Mk-21 high-fidelity reentry vehicle. This upgrade is expected to significantly boost America’s nuclear strike capabilities. The Minuteman III missile can hit targets anywhere in the world and is extremely hard to intercept, even with advanced air defense systems.
In a statement, the US Air Force explained that Vandenberg Space Force Base is the primary testing ground for the deterrence capabilities of the Air Force’s Global Strike Command. They clarified that the missile test was part of routine operations and not a response to any current global events.
The statement clarified that over 300 similar tests have been conducted in the past. This latest launch was meant to demonstrate that the US nuclear deterrent remains secure, reliable, and capable of addressing modern-day threats while reassuring allies of its strength.
General Thomas Bussiere, Commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command, emphasized the importance of the recent ICBM test, saying, “This launch highlights the readiness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent and the ICBM leg of the nuclear triad.” He credited the dedicated team of Airmen including missile operators, defenders, helicopter crews, and their support teams for maintaining this powerful security system that ensures the safety of the U.S. and its allies.
The test was overseen by the 377th Test and Evaluation Group at Vandenberg Space Force Base. This unit is the country’s only dedicated ICBM testing organization, conducting professional evaluations that assess both current and future capabilities of America’s land-based missile force.
The full name of the missile is LGM-30G Minuteman III. Here’s what the designation stands for:
This missile is powered by three solid-fuel rocket motors:
The total weight of the Minuteman III is approximately 36,030 kilograms. This powerful weapon can travel thousands of kilometers and is a key part of the US nuclear deterrent, designed to remain effective against 21st-century threats.
The Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) has an impressive range of up to 10,000 kilometers, allowing it to strike targets across the globe. It can travel at a staggering speed of 24,000 kilometers per hour. One of its most powerful features is its ability to carry up to three nuclear warheads, which means it can hit three different targets in a single launch.
Each Minuteman III missile costs around USD 7 million, and the United States currently has about 530 active units in its arsenal. The missile is developed and manufactured by Boeing Defense, one of America’s leading aerospace and defense companies.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest World News on India.com.