Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder highlighted a press release from Vandenberg Space Force Base that an operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile is scheduled for September 5, 2023, from 11:47 P.M. to September 6, 5:47 A.M. Pacific time from North Vandenberg Space Force Base, Report informs, citing US Department of Defense.
"The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of US nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and ineffectiveness of the nation's nuclear deterrent. This test is routine, and was scheduled years in advance. Consistent with previous test launches, this ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system. In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a prelaunch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct and notified the Russian government in advance per our existing bilateral obligations," Ryder said.