A test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) took off early this morning at Vandenberg Space Force Base.
A launch window was set between 11:01 p.m. on Tuesday and 5:01 a.m. on Wednesday. The missile took off at 1:00 a.m.
In a press release, officials say the purpose of the missile launch is to "demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent."
Vandenberg Space Force Base representatives add that the routine ICBM test was prepared years in advance and that the Russian government was notified ahead of time per the Hague Code of Conduct.
