The US military has set its latest Minuteman III missile launch to showcase its nuclear capability.

The United States military recently conducted a Minuteman III missile launch, showcasing its nuclear capability. The Minuteman III is a vital component of the nation’s strategic deterrent forces, managed by the Air Force Global Strike Command.

Background: The Evolution of Minuteman

The Minuteman missile system originated in the late 1950s, with the deployment of Minuteman I in the early 1960s.
It marked a revolutionary leap in technology, offering rapid reaction times and superior survivability compared to its predecessors.
Over almost six decades, the system has undergone continuous enhancements, incorporating modernization programs, expanded targeting options, and improved accuracy and survivability.
Today’s Minuteman weapon system reflects nearly 60 years of advancements.

Features of the Minuteman III Missile

Primary Function and Designation

The Minuteman III is an American land-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
The L in LGM signifies silo-launched; G denotes surface attack; M stands for guided missile, with 30 representing the Minuteman series, and the G after 30 indicating the current Minuteman III variant.

Operational Capabilities

The Minuteman III is a strategic weapon system employing a ballistic missile with intercontinental range.
Missiles are dispersed in hardened silos, ensuring protection against attacks, and connected to an underground launch control center through a system of robust cables.
Launch crews, consisting of two officers, maintain around-the-clock alerts in the launch control center, ensuring readiness.

Maintenance and Reliability

Minuteman’s maintenance concept emphasizes high reliability and a remove and replace approach, achieving nearly 100 percent alert rate.
The system’s inertially guided, highly survivable nature has been a cornerstone of America’s strategic deterrent program.

General Characteristics of Minuteman III

Contractor and Propulsion

The Minuteman III missile system is developed by Boeing Co.
It is powered by three solid-propellant rocket motors: First Stage ATK refurbished M55A1, Second Stage ATK refurbished SR-19, and Third Stage ATK refurbished SR-73.