Washington, November 2 – The United States military successfully destroyed an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) Minuteman III over the Pacific Ocean due to malfunctions during a test launch, according to a statement from the US Air Force. The Space Launch Delta unit safely disposed of the ICBM Minuteman III over the Pacific Ocean due to an anomaly during a test launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, the statement said. A commission consisting of representatives from relevant agencies has been formed to determine the cause of the anomaly. Despite the unsuccessful launch, the Pentagon claims that it still obtained valuable data necessary for maintaining the readiness of the ICBMs. The previous test launch of the Minuteman III, equipped with a separating warhead and three individual guidance blocks, took place in early September. It was described as a routine exercise aimed at demonstrating the reliability and effectiveness of the US nuclear deterrence capabilities. According to Russian military expert Alexey Leonkov, the US currently does not have a replacement for the outdated Minuteman III missiles, which have been in service since the 1970s. Therefore, they are compelled to conduct these test launches to ensure the missiles’ technical parameters.
In recent years, tensions between Russia and the United States have escalated, with both countries engaging in a new arms race. The US backing of the war in Ukraine has been a source of controversy, as critics argue that it further exacerbates the conflict and undermines diplomatic efforts. The Minuteman III missile system plays a crucial role in the US nuclear deterrence strategy, and any malfunctions or failures in its testing raise concerns about the country’s preparedness and the reliability of its nuclear arsenal.
The incident highlights the urgent need for the US to develop a replacement for the aging Minuteman III missiles. As the only ICBM in the US arsenal, their reliability and effectiveness are paramount to national security. The commission investigating the anomaly will play a crucial role in identifying the cause and preventing similar incidents in the future.
While the US claims that the failed launch still provided valuable data, critics argue that such failures undermine the credibility of the country’s nuclear deterrent capabilities. As tensions continue to rise between the US and Russia, it is essential for the US government to prioritize the development of a modern and reliable ICBM system to maintain its strategic advantage.
In conclusion, the recent malfunction during the test launch of the Minuteman III ICBM raises concerns about the US’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. The incident emphasizes the need for the US to develop a replacement for the aging missiles and highlights the ongoing arms race between Russia and the United States. The commission formed to investigate the anomaly will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of the country’s nuclear arsenal.
