The Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen conducted a test launch of the unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile with a test re-entry vehicle.

The test launch was conducted at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and the video was published by the United States Air Force on the 13th of August.

The video shared by the United States Air Force shows the missile going up in the sky during nighttime, leaving a large smoky explosion behind it.

The test launch should verify the accuracy and reliability of the Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) weapon system, supplying vital information to guarantee the nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure, and effective.

The data collected from test launches serves as a continuing force development evaluation used by the ICBM community, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and US Strategic Command.

Task Force commander, Aaron Boudreau explained: “Test launches are not a response or reaction to world events or regional tensions,”

“The launch calendars are built five years in advance, and planning for each individual launch begins six months to a year prior to launch. Our task force is comprised of experts from all three missile wings and they have showcased incredible initiative and flexibility to overcome unforeseen challenges during this worldwide pandemic. We’re honoured to conduct this mission in conjunction with the 576th Flight Test Squadron and extremely proud to represent the numerous men and women that support the nuclear deterrence mission.”