MINUTEMAN III LAUNCHES FROM VANDENBERG Published Feb. 21, 2016 By 040216 VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was launched during an operational test at 11:34 p.m. PST here Feb. 20, 2016. Col. J. Christopher Moss, 30th Space Wing commander, was the launch decision authority. "While ICBM launches from Vandenberg Air Force Base almost seem routine, each one requires a tremendous amount of effort and absolute attention to detail in order to ensure a safe and successful launch." said Moss. "This specific test will provide accuracy and reliability data that is essential to on-going and future modifications to the weapon system, which are key to improving the already impressive effectiveness of the Minuteman III force." For information about the flight test, call Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs at (318) 456-1305 or after hours at (318) 532-1215.