VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Space Launch Delta 30 safely terminated an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile over the Pacific Ocean at 12:06 a.m. Pacific Time Nov. 1, during a test launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
An anomaly is any unexpected event during the test. Since anomalies may arise from many factors relating to the operational platform itself, or the test equipment, careful analysis is needed to identify the cause.
A Launch Analysis Group is forming to investigate the cause. The LAG will include representatives from Air Force Global Strike Command, the 377th Test and Evaluation Group, SLD 30 Safety Office and Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, among other organizations.
The test launch program helps the command evaluate the Minuteman III and gather data to keep the system effective. The command learns lessons from every test launch. Gathering data from the launch allows AFGSC to identify and correct any issues with the weapon system to ensure the Minuteman III’s continued reliability and accuracy.
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For questions regarding the Vandenberg SFB range operations, contact
SLD 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or SLD30.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.