Watch: Minuteman III missile blasts off from Vandenberg base

An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was successfully launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base near Lompoc early Tuesday morning.

According to a Vandenberg news release, the missile launch took place at 12:49 a.m.

The test is meant to verify “the safety, security, effectiveness and readiness of the weapon system,” according to the release.

Col. Bryan Titus, Space Launch Delta 30 vice commander, was the launch decision authority.

”Tonight’s success is due to the hard work and dedication of Guardians and Airmen from across Team Vandenberg whose contributions are vital to our nation’s security,” Titus said in the release. “These test launches demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.”

This story was originally published August 16, 2022 at 11:12 AM.

Kaytlyn Leslie

The Tribune

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Kaytlyn Leslie writes about business and development for The San Luis Obispo Tribune. Hailing from Nipomo, she also covers city governments and happenings in San Luis Obispo. She joined The Tribune in 2013 after graduating from Cal Poly with her journalism degree.