March 27, 2026 Sentinel program advances with silo prototype The silo prototype will validate a modular, repeatable construction approach designed to accelerate fielding, reduce cost growth and enable learning before full-rate production.
March 4, 2026 ICBM test launch verifies multiple re-entry vehicle, system reliability Air Force Global Strike Command conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with two test re-entry vehicles at 11:01 p.m. Pacific time March 3 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
Feb. 27, 2026 Unarmed Minuteman III ICBM test launch scheduled at Vandenberg Space Force Base An operational test launch of an AFGSC unarmed Minuteman III ICBM is scheduled between 11:01 p.m.-5:01 a.m. Pacific time March 3-4, from north Vandenberg. This test is routine and was scheduled years in advance, with the purpose of validating and verifying the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy
Nov. 5, 2025 Air Force validates reliability, readiness of ICBM force with Minuteman III test launch AFGSC conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III ICBM from Vandenberg SFB, Calif., on Nov. 5, 2025. This test, designated GT 254, evaluated the ongoing reliability, operational readiness, & accuracy of the ICBM system, a cornerstone of America's national defense.
Aug. 7, 2025 20th Air Force reactivates ICBM Center of Excellence, completes inaugural Instructor Qualification Course 20th Air Force achieved a significant milestone in June with the successful execution of the firstst Instructor Qualification Course under the newly re-established ICBM Center of Excellence (ICE). Held from June 2-6, the course marked a pivotal moment in enhancing instructional standards across the
May 21, 2025 Minuteman III test launch showcases readiness of U.S. nuclear force's safe, effective deterrent A joint team of AFGSC Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a single Mark-21 High Fidelity Re-Entry Vehicle at 12:01 a.m. Pacific time May 21 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
Aug. 16, 2024 Sentinel: The History of the DAF Modernizing the Backbone of America’s National Security The U.S. Air Force is replacing the 54-year-old LGM-30G Minuteman III ICBM weapon system with the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM. Upgrading to Sentinel ICBMs ensures the land-based leg of America's Nuclear Triad remains safe, secure and effective.
June 6, 2024 Second Minuteman III test in week's time showcases readiness of U.S. ICBM fleet For the second time in a week, a joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen supported by Space Force Guardians launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile June 6, 2024, from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
Feb. 24, 2021 Minuteman III test launch demonstrates safe, reliable deterrent A team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a test reentry vehicle at 11:49 p.m. Pacific Time Feb. 23 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.The test demonstrates that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is
Oct. 28, 2020 AFOTEC stands up GBSD, ICBM detachment The Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center headquartered at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., stood up Detachment 3 at Hill Air Force Base Oct. 1 to provide operational test and support for the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) and other related Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)