US to conduct nuclear test of Minuteman III missile

US prepares for nuclear test of Minuteman III missile

On 5-6 November, the United States will hold test launch of the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, reports Newsweek.

The launch will take place from the base Vandenberg (California) in the direction of Kwajalein landfill in the Marshall Islands. This test will be part of a programme to verify the combat capability of the US nuclear arsenal.

Context.

The event will take place after President Donald Trump's order to resume nuclear tests, which was signed in October 2025. According to the document, the purpose of such inspections is to ensure the effectiveness and readiness of US deterrence systems in the event of a global threat.

What we know about Minuteman III

The Minuteman III is the main US land-based intercontinental missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. It is part of the strategic triad along with submarine-launched missile carriers and bombers.
The missile is capable of hitting targets at a distance of over 12 thousand kilometres.

Expert reaction

Analysts note that the launch may have demonstrative nature - as a signal to potential adversaries that the United States is ready to resume the full cycle of nuclear deterrence.