Jan. 13, 2026 MH-139 Grey Wolf helicopters complete 1st operational ICBM convoy security mission Two MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters assigned to the 40th Helicopter Squadron conducted their first operational Minuteman III ICBM convoy Jan. 8, marking an important milestone in the modernization of AFGSC’s nuclear security operations.
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.
Sept. 20, 2024 DoD leaders discuss future of Air Force nuclear deterrent systems Senior leaders discuss strategic deterrence during a time of Great Power Competition.
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.
April 5, 2022 Air Force’s new intercontinental ballistic missile system has a name: Sentinel Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall approved the designation for the system that modernizes the ICBM leg of the Nation’s nuclear triad. AFNWC manages the weapon system program.