The United States Air Force has launched a hypersonic missile in a demonstration of its nuclear capabilities.
The test was carried out early on Wednesday, local time, to prove that the U.S. nuclear deterrent remains “safe, secure, reliable and effective”.
The launch of the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile took place at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, just a hours after Russia deployed its own “Yars” ICBM for combat training.
However, the Air Force denied their own launch was in retaliation, citing 300 similar missile tests being conducted over the years and that this particular one was “not a response to current world events”.
"Facilitating test launches from the Western Range at Vandenberg Space Force Base is a critical component of our mission and the national defence strategy," said U.S. Space Force Col. Dorian Hatcher, deputy commander the host unit overseeing all Spaceport and Western Range operations at Vandenberg.
“Our Guardians and Airmen are dedicated to enabling Minuteman III tests to ensure a credible and effective deterrent for the nation.”
