US Test-Fires “Minuteman III” Intercontinental Ballistic Missile

The United States has successfully conducted a test launch of its Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, just days after President Donald Trump called for the resumption of America’s nuclear testing programme. The missile, unarmed during the trial, travelled approximately 7,500 kilometres before striking its designated target near the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Marshall Islands.

A Routine Test with Strategic Implications

The US Air Force clarified that the test, code-named GT 254, was planned months in advance as part of routine reliability assessments. According to Lt. Col. Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron, the exercise was designed to “verify and validate the ICBM system’s ability to perform its critical mission.” Data collected from such launches ensure the continued accuracy and reliability of the US strategic deterrent. However, the timing of the test — following President Trump’s renewed call for nuclear readiness — has drawn global attention.

Capabilities of the Minuteman III Missile

The Minuteman III, operational since the 1970s, remains the backbone of America’s land-based nuclear arsenal. It can reach targets up to 13,000 kilometres away and is capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads. Despite its age, continuous upgrades have maintained its role as a deterrent against rival powers such as Russia and China. The missile’s name originates from its ability to launch within a minute of command — a hallmark of Cold War-era defence readiness.

Trump’s Push for Peace Amid Nuclear Readiness

In a recent statement, President Trump reiterated his desire for global denuclearisation while simultaneously asserting America’s unmatched nuclear capability. “We could blow up the world 150 times. There’s no need for this,” he remarked, adding that he had discussed arms reduction with Russian and Chinese leaders. Trump insisted that his administration’s tests were meant to ensure deterrence, not aggression, emphasising, “I want peace all over the world.”

Exam Oriented Facts

• The Minuteman III ICBM was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base on November 5, 2025.
• The missile flew 7,500 km and hit its target near the Marshall Islands.
• It was an unarmed test named GT 254 conducted by the 576th Flight Test Squadron.
• The Minuteman III has a maximum range of about 13,000 km and forms part of the US nuclear triad.

Non-Nuclear Tests and Future Modernisation Plans

Energy Secretary Chris Wright clarified that the ongoing testing programme involves non-critical system evaluations, excluding nuclear detonations. These trials examine the missile’s components and delivery systems without using fissile material. The US plans to replace its aging Minuteman III fleet with next-generation ICBMs by 2030 under its nuclear modernisation initiative. While Washington insists these measures maintain deterrence, defence analysts caution that such developments could fuel a new era of strategic rivalry, complicating global peace efforts that President Trump continues to advocate publicly.