Test GT 254 assessed the reliability, operational readiness, and accuracy of the ICBM system, a cornerstone of the United States’ national defense.
The United States Air Force (USAF), through the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on November 5, 2025, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The launch, designated GT 254, aimed to evaluate the ongoing reliability, operational readiness, and accuracy of the ICBM system, which remains one of the key elements of the U.S. nuclear deterrent force.
The mission was carried out by a team of Airmen from the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron, who employed the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS) aboard a U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft, testing the effectiveness of the alternate command and control system for the intercontinental missile forces.
“GT 254 is not just a launch – it’s a comprehensive assessment verifying the ICBM system’s ability to perform its critical mission,” said Lt. Col. Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron. “The data collected during the test is invaluable for ensuring the continued reliability and accuracy of the weapon system.”
The unarmed missile traveled approximately 4,200 miles (about 6,760 km) to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site, located at the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. The site is equipped with advanced sensors, radars, optical instruments, and telemetry systems that gathered critical data during the missile’s terminal phase.
The operation was supported by Airmen from all three AFGSC missile wings, along with maintenance technicians from the 90th Missile Wing, based at F.E. Warren AFB in Wyoming.
The United States is currently advancing the modernization of its strategic forces with the new LGM-35A Sentinel system. However, maintaining the readiness of the existing Minuteman III fleet remains a top priority.
Source and images: VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, California | Wikimedia. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
