Routine Unarmed Minuteman III ICBM Operational Test Launch GT 256 Scheduled at Vandenberg Space Force Base

CALIFORNIA — An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is scheduled between 12:01 and 6:01 a.m. Pacific Time on May 20 from the northern portion of Vandenberg Space Force Base.

This launch, designated GT 256, was scheduled years ago and is not in response to world events. The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to confirm the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system, according to the May 18 announcement from Air Force Global Strike Command and Space Launch Delta 30.

Launch Schedule Details

The test window aligns with standard procedures for operational test launches to support safe flight trajectories and data collection over the Pacific test range.

Broader Operational Significance

Minuteman III remains the backbone of the U.S. land-based intercontinental ballistic missile force. Periodic test launches like GT 256 contribute directly to confirming the fleet’s safe, secure and effective deterrent posture through empirical flight data.

The ICBM test launch program confirms the operational capability of the Minuteman III and supports the United States in maintaining a strong, credible nuclear deterrent as a key element of U.S. national security and the security of U.S. allies and partners.

Official Statements

• Air Force Global Strike Command, May 18 statement: “An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled between 12:01 and 6:01 a.m. Pacific Time, May 20, from the northern portion of the installation.”

• Air Force Global Strike Command, May 18 statement: “This routine launch, designated GT 256, was scheduled years ago, and is not in response to world events.”

• Air Force Global Strike Command, May 18 statement: “The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system, according to AFGSC.”

• Lt. Col. Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron, GT 255 post-launch statement: “GT 255 allowed us to assess the performance of individual components of the missile system. By continually assessing varying mission profiles, we are able to enhance the performance of the entire ICBM fleet, ensuring the maximum level of readiness for the land-based leg of the nation’s nuclear triad.”

• Gen. S.L. Davis, commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, program statement: “It is critical to test all aspects of our ICBM force, including our ability to deliver multiple, independently targeted payloads with absolute precision.”