US tests Minuteman III as Sentinel successor ICBM programme struggles
An unarmed MMIII ICBM was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California on 4 June. (Photo: US Space Force)
In service for nearly 60 years, the Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile is due to be replaced by the Sentinel, but cost overruns and delays continue to plague this successor programme.
Earlier this week the USAF and US Space Force launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (MMIII ICBM) equipped with one re-entry vehicle. The test comes at a time when the Pentagon is evaluating how to progress with the Sentinel programme which has been experiencing cost overruns and delays.
The MMIII was first deployed in the 1960s. Over the last five decades, the USAF has conducted various life extension efforts to update its component systems.
The ICBM is expected to be replaced by the Sentinel, which should be delivered from 2029 to 2036. This effort comprises production of the missile
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”]()
UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”
Rachel Reeves announced port upgrades, protected budgets for innovation and investment in novel technologies.
-
![Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees]()
Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees
The Australian Budget was marked by tax cuts and a looming general election which led to little hope that there would be a substantial defence boost even with a big bill for nuclear submarines due.
-
![Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market]()
Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market
The communications company Gilat launched its new Gilat Defense division at the Satellite 2025 expo, with future solutions aimed at US military customers.
-
![Collins MAPS Gen II to equip US DoD watercraft]()
Collins MAPS Gen II to equip US DoD watercraft
US services have already conducted multiple tests with military maritime systems fitted with the system.
-
![OCCAR expects substantial boost in programme numbers “in the coming months”]()
OCCAR expects substantial boost in programme numbers “in the coming months”
Europe’s Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) “has to establish itself…as a centre of excellence for cooperative Defence Equipment Programmes” in the face of growing threats and the need for rearmament, according to the organisation’s chairman.
