The US Armed Forces successfully conducted an intercontinental ballistic missile test. The Minuteman III rocket, launched from the Vandenberg military base in California, was launched on November 5th, reaffirming the readiness and reliability of the US nuclear system, according to the country's Space Force Command.
According to the Air Force, this test, designated as GT 254, was carried out in a planned manner and is important for assessing the effectiveness of the strategic weapons system. The rocket traveled approximately 4,200 miles (i.e., 6,800 kilometers) before reaching the Kwajalein Test Site in the Marshall Islands region.
The statement emphasized that all procedures were carried out according to strict security protocols, and critical technical data for the AFGSC (Global Strike Command) were collected through testing. This data will be used in the future for updating the missile system and assessing strategic readiness.
On the same day, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov also put forward a proposal to prepare for nuclear weapons tests. This may mean the beginning of a new stage in nuclear competition. According to Belousov, the US has been steadily moving away from international arms reduction agreements in recent years and has accelerated the modernization of its arsenal.
Interestingly, a week before Belousov's statement, US President Donald Trump also spoke about the resumption of nuclear tests. He stated that "while Russia and China are conducting trials, the US must also demonstrate its capabilities." Trump also noted that North Korea and Pakistan have also intensified their nuclear programs.
According to analysts, Washington's move is being interpreted as a response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements about testing the "Burevestnik" cruise missile and the "Poseidon" submarine.
For reference, the Minuteman III missile has been in US arms since 1970, which provides the main advantage in the country's nuclear potential. The maximum range of the missile is 12 thousand kilometers, making it one of the longest-range weapons in the world.
Currently, the USA has 400 such Minuteman III mine-type missiles, each of which can carry up to three nuclear warheads. They are maintained in constant combat readiness at three major military bases in the country: Malstrom in Montana, F.E. Warren in Wyoming, and Maynot Air Force Base in North Dakota.
Thus, the latest test demonstrates the constant readiness of the US nuclear strategy and can further intensify the rivalry between Washington and Moscow in terms of military-technical equality.
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