US Space Force Set to Test Minuteman III Missile Amid Rising Global Tensions

[Social Media]

 

On election night, the US Space Force planned to launch an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, testing the nation’s nuclear deterrent at a time when tensions with Russia and the Middle East are high. This missile test, scheduled years in advance, is intended to affirm the United States’ preparedness in maintaining its nuclear forces. According to Air Force Global Strike Command, the launch aims to "demonstrate the readiness of US nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent."

 

Although the test was set to coincide with Election Day, officials stressed that the timing was purely coincidental. As per an agency statement to the California-based Lompoc Record, “The election had nothing to do with its scheduling.” Launches of this kind are usually held in early November, with last year’s test taking place on November 1. The launch was scheduled for shortly after 11 p.m. PST from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

 

The LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM serves as the land-based component of the United States’ nuclear arsenal, with around 400 of these missiles on standby across the country, according to the Air Force. In line with established international protocols, the Hague Code of Conduct and Russia had been notified of the test in advance.

 

This test comes on the heels of Russia’s recent large-scale nuclear exercises. Just a week ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin directed a massive nuclear drill simulating the deployment of Moscow’s own ballistic missile systems. The exercise stirred unease reminiscent of the Cold War era, though Putin assured the world that Russia’s nuclear arsenal would only be deployed under “extremely exceptional measures,” emphasizing that his country is not seeking a “new arms race.”

 

However, Putin also issued a warning directed at the United States and NATO, stating that Russia would consider using nuclear force if the country faced an attack by a non-nuclear power that is supported by a nuclear-armed state. This declaration seemed to address the United States and NATO allies directly, particularly those that continue to support Ukraine, where conflict has persisted since Russia’s 2023 invasion.

 

As geopolitical tensions escalate, the United States' Minuteman III test serves as a reminder of the ongoing reliance on nuclear deterrence in a world where diplomatic stability is increasingly fragile.

 

Based on a report by NYP 2024-11-07

 

 

 

[impulse]

I wouldn't trust them not to "accidentally" program in Mar-a-Lago.

 

[Purdey]

A very weird way of lowering tensions.