Demonstrations are set for Vandenberg AFB’s Santa Maria gate to Protest ICBM missile test set on November 5th 10:45 pm. Launch window: 11 pm 11/5 until 5 am 11/6 Pacific time. Photo: Protesters arrested at earlier missile test.

Minuteman III Test Launch to Showcase Readiness
Of US Nuclear Force’s “Safe, Effective” Deterrent
Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs

Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. — (November 1, 2024) — An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled between 11:01 p.m. Pacific Time on Nov. 5 to 5:01 a.m. Pacific Time on Nov. 6 from north Vandenberg.

The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.

This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance. Consistent with previous test launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system.

In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a pre-launch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct, and notified the Russian government in advance, per our existing bi-lateral obligations.

One year ago, a similar missile firing failed.

For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) range operations, contact SLD 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or 30sw.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.

For queries regarding the ICBM test launch mission and missile, contact Air Force Global Strike Command’s Public Affairs line at 318-456-1305 or afgsc.paworkflow@us.af.mil.