US Launches Doomsday Minuteman III Nuclear-Capable Missile | Video

Last Updated:May 22, 2025, 08:19 IST

Minuteman III Launch: The US Air Force has affirmed its commitment to ensuring the Minuteman III "remains a viable deterrent".

Minuteman III Launch: The launch was captured on video. (Image Credit: X)

The US Air Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, in what officials described as a “doomsday missile test." The launch was captured on video and comes as Washington reaffirms the strength of its nuclear deterrent.

What Is Minuteman III?

The Minuteman III, a nuclear-capable missile, traveled approximately 4,200 miles at a speed exceeding 15,000 miles per hour, reaching the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands.

The Minuteman III is equipped with a single Mark-21 high-fidelity re-entry vehicle, which would typically carry a nuclear payload in an operational scenario. The missile has undergone numerous tests in the past, including one just before Donald Trump declared his presidential victory in November 2024.

The Minuteman program, dating back to the 1970s, is slated for replacement by the Sentinel system. The Air Force has affirmed its commitment to ensuring the Minuteman III “remains a viable deterrent" until the Sentinel achieves full operational capability.

What US Said On Minuteman III?

General Thomas Bussiere, commander of the US Global Strike Command, emphasized the significance of the test, saying, “This ICBM test launch underscores the strength of the nation’s nuclear deterrent and the readiness of the ICBM leg of the triad."

He further praised the personnel who maintain this critical capability, adding, “This powerful safeguard is maintained by dedicated Airmen – missileers, defenders, helicopter operators and the teams who supports them – who ensure the security of the nation and its allies."

Why Minuteman III Is Crucial?

The test coincides with US President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of initial $25 billion funding for “Golden Dome," a proposed nationwide missile defense system. TDonald rump envisions a comprehensive system capable of defending against a wide range of threats, from ICBMs to hypersonic and cruise missiles and drones, with an eventual cost estimated at $175 billion.

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

News world US Launches Doomsday Minuteman III Nuclear-Capable Missile | Video