An operational test launch of a Minuteman III ICBM originally scheduled for Tuesday has been delayed until today due to a “range safety instrumentation” issue at launch site Vandenberg AFB, Calif., according to the Air Force.
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| The Air Force test launches a Minuteman III ICBM in September 2010. Photo: Air Force. |
The same launch window, 6:01 to 9:01 p.m. EST, is in effect for today’s expected launch.
The missile’s unarmed single re-entry vehicle is expected to travel approximately 4,190 miles to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Data collected will further validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the Minuteman III weapon system while providing valuable information to assist the Air Force in sustaining and modernizing the weapon system through 2030.
The Defense Department in April postponed a test launch due to tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
The Air Force in November successfully launched a Minuteman III with a simulated re-entry vehicle from Vandenberg. Northrop Grumman [NOC] is the prime integrator for Minuteman III while Boeing [BA] performs maintenance and sustainment in support of the entire system.