Watch Video | The United States recently tested the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Israel. Read: The Latest Defence Current Affairs Notes here
The missile is often called the “Doomsday missile” due to its nuclear strike capability and extremely long range.
The test launch took place from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, and carried two test re-entry vehicles.
Officials clarified that the launch was scheduled years earlier and was not linked to current global tensions.
What Is the Minuteman III Missile?
The Minuteman III is a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile used by the United States Air Force.
It is the only land-based, silo-launched ICBM currently deployed by the United States.
The missile forms the land-based component of America’s nuclear triad, which ensures strategic deterrence.
Range and Global Strike Capability
The Minuteman III has a strike range of about 13,000 kilometres, enabling it to reach targets almost anywhere on Earth.
During tests, the missile can travel thousands of kilometres to designated targets, including test sites in the Marshall Islands. It can reach speeds of over 15,000 mph (about 24,000 km/h) during flight.
Warhead and Destructive Power
The Minuteman III is capable of carrying nuclear warheads significantly more powerful than the Hiroshima atomic bomb.
Some configurations allow the missile to carry multiple independently targetable nuclear warheads.
These features make it one of the most powerful strategic deterrent weapons in the US arsenal.
Read : The Latest Defence Current Affairs Notes here
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