The test had previously been postponed over concerns about China.
The Air Force Global Strike Command announced that the U.S. Air Force successfully conducted a test of an unarmed nuclear-capable long-range missile on Tuesday. The unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was launched out of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California and its reentry vehicle traveled near the Marshall Islands 4,200 miles away. The missile has a range of 6,000-plus miles and can travel at a speed of approximately 15,000 miles per hour.
“[This test was] to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent,” Air Force officials stated. “This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable, and effective to deter twenty-first century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred more than 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events.”
The test was initially scheduled for August 4 but Defense Secretary Austin delayed it due to concerns about China’s response to the visit to Taiwan by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Austin to seek the Lord’s wisdom as he heads the Defense Department.
- For Secretary Kendall as he leads the U.S. Air Force.
- That the Joint Chiefs of Staff Pentagon officials would be discerning in their recommendations to the president.
Sources: Reuters, Washington Examiner, CNN
