# The unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from the Vandenberg Space Force Base near Santa Barbara.

*aerospace · news · 2026-03-05 · NDTV.com*

## Key points

- The US launched an unarmed Minuteman III ICBM from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Tuesday night.
- The current Minuteman III missiles carry only one warhead due to a reduction treaty with Russia.
- The test, named GT 255, was planned years in advance and not in response to recent conflicts.
- Data from the launch aims to enhance the performance and readiness of the entire ICBM fleet.
- Airmen from the 91st Missile Wing at Minot AFB provided direct air support for the launch.

**Countries:** United States, Iran, North Korea, Russia, China, Marshall Islands

[Read the full story on NDTV.com](https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/us-iran-israel-war-what-is-minuteman-iii-doomsday-missile-tested-by-us-amid-iran-war-11171304)

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