DOD to run ICBM test launch tomorrow

The Pentagon has announced an operational test launch of an unarmed Air Force Global Strike Command Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile early tomorrow morning out of Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA.

Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagon’s chief spokesman, said during a press conference today that the launch is a “routine test, which was scheduled far in advance.”

The Pentagon last tested an ICBM on Aug. 16. That launch was initially scheduled for Aug. 4 but was delayed following Chinese military exercises in response to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s (D-CA) visit to Taiwan.

Tomorrow’s launch, Ryder said, is “consistent with previous tests” and intended to “validate and verify effectiveness and readiness of the system.”

The Pentagon, in accordance with treaty obligations, has notified the Russian government of the test.