BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The Air Force delayed an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile test launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, today due to adverse weather conditions at the target area downrange. The launch has been rescheduled for Thursday, Oct. 29, between 12:27 a.m. and 6:27 a.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg.
The Air Force adheres to strict protocols while performing operational test launches, only launching when all safety parameters with the range and missile are met.
The test launch program helps the command evaluate the Minuteman III and gather data to keep the system effective.
Air Force Global Strike Command is comprised of more than 33,700 Airmen and civilians assigned to two numbered air forces, 11 wings, two geographically-separated squadrons and one detachment in the continental United States, and deployed to locations around the globe. The command oversees all bomber and Intercontinental Ballistic Missile operations for the U.S. Department of Defense. More information can be found at: https://www.afgsc.af.mil/Library/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/454593/air-force-global-strike-command-air-forces-strategic-air/.
For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg AFB range operations, contact 30th Space Wing Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or 30sw.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.
For queries regarding the ICBM test launch purpose and missile, contact AFGSC Public Affairs at 318-456-1305 (After Hours 318-532-1215) or afgsc.paworkflow@us.af.mil.