MINUTEMAN III LAUNCH SCHEDULED Published Sept. 22, 2014 By 030914 VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for Tuesday Sept. 23, between 3:45 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. from north Vandenberg. The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system, according to Air Force Global Strike Command. Col. Keith Balts, 30th Space Wing commander, is the Launch Decision Authority. "While ICBM launches from Vandenberg almost seem routine, each one requires a tremendous amount of effort and absolute attention to detail in order to accurately assess the current performance and capability of the Nation's fielded ICBM force and ensure public safety during the launch," Col. Balts said. For information call Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs at (318) 456-1305 or after hours at (318) 456-2151.