-
#280
by
catdlr
on 12 Dec, 2023 03:57
-
So does this mean Vandenberg and perhaps other military sites along our shoreline could be set up for this capability? Is this part of the Aegis Combat System upgraded with GMD? or something new/similar that is land-based? That harkens to the old Nike missile sites from the early Cold War years.
I'm not sure what you're getting at here. The only GBI silos that exist are at Vandenberg and Fort Greely in Alaska. Those two sites are, theoretically, capable of defending the entire United States from threats coming across the North Pacific. Remember, GMD is Gound-based Midcourse Defense. Midcourse indicates the threats are intended to be intercepted when coasting far outside the atmosphere. GMD has positively absurd potential battlespace based on the missile's kinematics and the available sensors. There's occasionally talk of building an East coast GBI site in Maine or such, but the money's never there and that's not even taking into account the necessary money for another SBX (never happening) or another LRDR/further upgrades to the Cape Cod and Thule UEWRs.
The unique thing being tested on this mission was the ability to select GBI to fire only its first two stages, thus allowing threats to be engaged closer in/sooner. Best thing to do is watch the MDA mission explanation video here: https://www.mda.mil/global/videos/FTG-12_Mission_Video.mp4
Torlek ,
"Midcourse indicates the threats are intended to be intercepted when coasting far outside the atmosphere."
That's what I wanted to understand. I was under the impression that these GBI-enhanced missiles had a far shorter range (e.i., from emeny launching from a sub offshore) compared to long-distance ICBMs thus requiring far more sites closer to large metro areas other than Vandenberg and Fort Greely.
Thanks for your response.
Tony.
-
#281
by
catdlr
on 13 Dec, 2023 06:13
-
-
#282
by
Ken the Bin
on 16 May, 2024 13:33
-
NGA Missile Operations notice.
160815Z MAY 24
NAVAREA XII 341/24(18).
EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC.
CALIFORNIA
1. MISSILE OPERATIONS 211700Z TO 220300Z AND
221300Z TO 230100 MAY IN AREA BOUND BY
32-36.00N 118-20.00W, 33-02.00N 118-38.00W,
32-32.00N 119-18.00W, 32-23.00N 119-28.00W,
32-12.00N 119-18.00W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 230200Z MAY 24.//
-
#283
by
Ken the Bin
on 22 May, 2024 23:28
-
NGA Missile Operations notice.
222308Z MAY 24
NAVAREA XII 368/24(18).
EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC.
CALIFORNIA
1. MISSILE OPERATIONS 1600Z TO 2200Z DAILY
23 AND 24 MAY IN AREA BOUND BY
33-02.00N 118-38.00W, 32-36.00N 118-20.00W,
32-12.00N 119-18.00W, 32-23.00N 119-28.00W,
32-32.00N 119-18.00W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 242300Z MAY 24.
-
#284
by
jcm
on 23 May, 2024 03:33
-
NGA Missile Operations notice.
222308Z MAY 24
NAVAREA XII 368/24(18).
EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC.
CALIFORNIA
1. MISSILE OPERATIONS 1600Z TO 2200Z DAILY
23 AND 24 MAY IN AREA BOUND BY
33-02.00N 118-38.00W, 32-36.00N 118-20.00W,
32-12.00N 119-18.00W, 32-23.00N 119-28.00W,
32-32.00N 119-18.00W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 242300Z MAY 24.
From San Clemente; likely a Trident launch?
-
#285
by
Ken the Bin
on 30 May, 2024 18:17
-
UNARMED MINUTEMAN III TEST LAUNCH TO SHOWCASE READINESS OF U.S. NUCLEAR FORCE’S SAFE, EFFECTIVE DETERRENT
Published May 30, 2024
Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. --
Vandenberg Guardians and Airmen will support two separate operational test launches of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile off the Vandenberg Test Range scheduled for the first week of June.
The first test is scheduled for June 4 from 12:01 a.m. to June 4, 2024, 6:01 a.m., Pacific Time from north Vandenberg.
The second test is scheduled for June 6 from 12:01 a.m. to June 6, 6:01 a.m., Pacific Time from north Vandenberg.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
"Vandenberg Guardians and Airmen are committed to supporting our mission partners and these vitally important test launches from the Western Range," said Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander. "Test launches like these are critical in safeguarding the defense our nation.”
Consistent with previous test launches, this routine, unarmed ICBM test launch will validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system.
“A previous test launch slated for February 2024 had to be postponed due to some needed repairs at Reagan Test Site,” said Col. Chris Cruise, 377th Test and Evaluation Group commander. “This summer’s test launch was already scheduled so it made sense to do them both while all the necessary personnel were in place. The launches were scheduled well in advance and have nothing to do with world events.”
In accordance with standard procedures, the United States has transmitted a pre-launch notification pursuant to the Hague Code of Conduct, and notified the Russian government in advance, per our existing bi-lateral obligations.
For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) range operations, contact SLD 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or [email protected].
For queries regarding the ICBM test launch mission and missile, contact AFGSC Public Affairs at [email protected].
-
#286
by
Ken the Bin
on 04 Jun, 2024 10:58
-
UNARMED MINUTEMAN III TEST LAUNCH SHOWCASES READINESS OF U.S. NUCLEAR FORCE’S SAFE, EFFECTIVE DETERRENT Published June 4, 2024
Air Force Global Strike Command
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an Air Force Global Strike Command unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Tuesday, June 4, at 12:56 a.m. PT.
The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to validate and verify the safety, security, effectiveness, and readiness of the weapon system, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.
This was the first of two test launches scheduled for this week from north Vandenberg.
Col. Bryan Titus, Space Launch Delta 30 vice commander, was the launch decision authority.
"This test launch marks the start of a remarkable week for our Guardians and Airmen at Vandenberg, with two test launches scheduled from the Western Range," stated Titus. "These tests hold immense significance, not only for our nation's defense, but also serve as a pivotal moment in showcasing the exceptional capabilities and expertise of our dedicated team."
For questions regarding the launch window or Vandenberg SFB range operations, contact Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs at 805-606-3595 or [email protected].
For queries regarding the ICBM test launch mission and missile, contact AFGSC Public Affairs at 318-456-1305 (After Hours 318-532-1215) or [email protected].
- 30 -
MINUTEMAN III TEST LAUNCH SHOWCASES READINESS OF U.S. NUCLEAR FORCE’S SAFE, EFFECTIVE DETERRENT(video embedded:
https://d34w7g4gy10iej.cloudfront.net/video/2406/DOD_110354429/DOD_110354429-1024x576-2000k.mp4)
Published June 4, 2024
Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs
A joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen supported by Space Force Guardians launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with one re-entry vehicle June 4 at 12:56 a.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable and effective to deter 21st century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred over 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events. (U.S. Space Force videos by Senior Airman Kadielle Shaw)
-
#287
by
zubenelgenubi
on 05 Jun, 2024 05:39
-
-
#288
by
Ken the Bin
on 06 Jun, 2024 11:31
-
MMIII GT-250 Launches from Vandenberg
Published June 6, 2024
By Senior Airman Joshua LeRoi and Senior Airman Ryan Quijas
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An unarmed Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile launches during an operational test at 1:46 a.m. Pacific Time 6 June, 2024, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif. ICBM test launches demonstrate that the U.S. ICBM fleet is ready, reliable and effective in leveraging dominance in an era of strategic competition.
-
#289
by
catdlr
on 06 Jun, 2024 12:32
-
This is a video of the second of the two tests conducted at VSFB
-
#290
by
Ken the Bin
on 06 Jun, 2024 15:35
-
Second Minuteman III test in week's time showcases readiness of U.S. ICBM fleet Published June 6, 2024
Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- For the second time in a week, a joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen supported by Space Force Guardians launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with one re-entry vehicle June 6 at 1:46 a.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable and effective to deter 21st century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred over 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events.
"The fact that we were able to complete two operational test launches in one week is a testimony to the excellence and professionalism of the Airmen and Guardians who do this mission every day,” said Col. Chris Cruise, 377th Test and Evaluation Group Commander. “This morning’s launch demonstrates our commitment to deterrence as we serve as the cornerstone of security for our allies and partners across the globe."
The ICBM's reentry vehicle traveled approximately 4,200 miles to the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command's Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site on the U.S. Army Garrison-Kwajalein Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands. RTS sensors, including high-fidelity metric and signature radars, as well as optical sensors and telemetry, support the research, development, test and evaluation of America's defense and space programs. For these tests, RTS team members collect radar, optical and telemetry data in the terminal phase of flight to evaluate system performance.
The test launch is a culmination of months of preparation that involve multiple government partners.
Airmen from all three missile wings were selected for the task force to support the test launch, and maintainers from the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, provided maintenance support. The missile bases within Air Fore Global Strike Command have crew members standing alert 24 hours a day, year-round, overseeing the nation’s ICBM alert forces.
“Our ICBM force provides 24/7 strategic deterrence and stand ready to respond at a moment’s notice as the most responsive leg of the nuclear triad,” said Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, commander, Air Force Global Strike Command. “These test launches demonstrate and confirm our readiness to deliver a safe, secure, effective, and credible, global combat capability.”
The ICBM community, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and U.S. Strategic Command, uses data collected from test launches for continuing force development evaluation. The ICBM test launch program demonstrates the operational capability of the Minuteman III and ensures the United States’ ability to maintain a strong, credible nuclear deterrent as a key element of U.S. national security and the security of U.S. allies and partners.
Air Force Global Strike Command is a major command with headquarters at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, in the Shreveport-Bossier City community. The command oversees the nation's three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the Air Force’s entire bomber force, to include B-52, B-1 and B-2 wings, the Long Range Strike Bomber program, Air Force Nuclear Command, Control and Communications systems, and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise. Approximately 33,700 professionals are assigned to two Numbered Air Forces, nine wings, two geographically-separated squadrons and one detachment in the continental United States and deployed to locations around the globe. AFGSC marks its 15th year anniversary in 2024. More information can be found at: https://www.afgsc.af.mil/About/Fact-Sheets/Article/454593/air-force-global-strike-command-air-forces-strategic-air/
-
#291
by
catdlr
on 07 Jun, 2024 01:04
-
A second test was completed:
Launch Alert via Launch-Alert
5:53 PM (9 minutes ago)
to [email protected]
The following is a news release from Air Force Global Strike Command:
Second Minuteman III test in week's time showcases readiness of U.S. ICBM fleet
Published June 6, 2024
Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- For the second time in a week, a joint team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen supported by Space Force Guardians launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with one re-entry vehicle June 6 at 1:46 a.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States' nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable and effective to deter 21st century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred over 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events.
"The fact that we were able to complete two operational test launches in one week is a testimony to the excellence and professionalism of the Airmen and Guardians who do this mission every day," said Col. Chris Cruise, 377th Test and Evaluation Group Commander. "This morning’s launch demonstrates our commitment to deterrence as we serve as the cornerstone of security for our allies and partners across the globe."
The ICBM's reentry vehicle traveled approximately 4,200 miles to the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command's Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site on the U.S. Army Garrison-Kwajalein Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands. RTS sensors, including high-fidelity metric and signature radars, as well as optical sensors and telemetry, support the research, development, test and evaluation of America's defense and space programs. For these tests, RTS team members collect radar, optical and telemetry data in the terminal phase of flight to evaluate system performance.
The test launch is a culmination of months of preparation that involve multiple government partners.
Airmen from all three missile wings were selected for the task force to support the test launch, and maintainers from the 341st Missile Wing at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, provided maintenance support. The missile bases within Air Fore Global Strike Command have crew members standing alert 24 hours a day, year-round, overseeing the nation’s ICBM alert forces.
“Our ICBM force provides 24/7 strategic deterrence and stand ready to respond at a moment’s notice as the most responsive leg of the nuclear triad,” said Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, commander, Air Force Global Strike Command. “These test launches demonstrate and confirm our readiness to deliver a safe, secure, effective, and credible, global combat capability.”
The ICBM community, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and U.S. Strategic Command, uses data collected from test launches for continuing force development evaluation. The ICBM test launch program demonstrates the operational capability of the Minuteman III and ensures the United States’ ability to maintain a strong, credible nuclear deterrent as a key element of U.S. national security and the security of U.S. allies and partners.
Air Force Global Strike Command is a major command with headquarters at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, in the Shreveport-Bossier City community. The command oversees the nation's three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the Air Force’s entire bomber force, to include B-52, B-1 and B-2 wings, the Long Range Strike Bomber program, Air Force Nuclear Command, Control and Communications systems, and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise. Approximately 33,700 professionals are assigned to two Numbered Air Forces, nine wings, two geographically-separated squadrons and one detachment in the continental United States and deployed to locations around the globe. AFGSC marks its 15th year anniversary in 2024. More information can be found at: https://www.afgsc.af.mil/About/Fact-Sheets/Article/454593/air-force-global-strike-command-air-forces-strategic-air/
-
#292
by
catdlr
on 12 Jun, 2024 16:24
-
This is a video of the first of two tests conducted at VSFB, the second test video was posted above a week ago.
-
#293
by
catdlr
on 18 Jun, 2024 18:16
-
Mk21A RV TEST LAUNCH SHOWCASES READINESS
Published June 18, 2024
By SLD 30 Public Affairs
Space Launch Delta 30
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An operational test launch of an unarmed Mk21A reentry vehicle was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard a Minotaur I rocket, Monday, June 17, at 11:01 p.m. PT.
The Mk21A RV is currently under contract with Lockheed Martin for its engineering and manufacturing development phase. After attaining full operational capability, the Mk21A RV will be integrated on the nation’s intercontinental ballistic missile weapon system. The Mk21A program is currently in early development and overseen by the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center.
The Minotaur family of launch vehicles is based on government-furnished Peacekeeper and Minuteman rocket motors that Northrop Grumman has integrated with modern flight proven avionics and other subsystems to produce cost-effective, responsive launch vehicles to support missile defense testing and other suborbital applications.
"Test launches like these are crucial for protecting our nation's defense," stated Col. Mark Shoemaker, Commander of Space Launch Delta 30. "As global threats evolve, it's essential to support these launches and maintain access to space to safeguard our nation."
Vandenberg Space Force Base is the United States Space Force’s West Coast Spaceport and Test Range, and one of only two high-capacity spaceports for the United States. Vandenberg plays a pivotal role in maintaining our national security posture by leveraging advanced space launch and test range capabilities to deter and defend against emerging threats in the global theatre.
______________________________________________________________
-
#294
by
edkyle99
on 18 Jun, 2024 19:54
-
That June 17, 2024 (June 18, 0701 UTC) Mk 21A test launch was the first suborbital Minotaur 1, I believe, and the first since 2021 (and first from Vandenberg (presumably SLC 8?) since 2011(!). The previous attempt at a Mk 21A test by a Minotaur 2+ failed after only 11 seconds in 2022. An important success, finally. Mk 21A meant for new Sentinel ICBM. Interesting that they switched to Minotaur 1 with the Pegasus type upper stage motors in place of the original Minuteman 2 upper stage(s).
- Ed Kyle
-
#295
by
Steven Pietrobon
on 19 Jun, 2024 05:24
-
-
#296
by
edkyle99
on 20 Jun, 2024 23:50
-
Security camera video of June 17/18, 2024 Minotaur 1 launch from Vandenberg with a Mk 21A RV. Captured from Reno, NV. Appears to show the upper stages at work, followed by an interesting plume that I'm puzzling over.
Note that this is sped up 8 times and we are seeing a rocket moving up and away from the camera from hundreds of miles distance. If the clock is relatively accurate, I'm figuring that what we are seeing is only the Orion 38 fourth stage burn (would have come after a coast phase), followed by, well, something. A post-boost phase followed by a spin-up?
- Ed Kyle
-
#297
by
catdlr
on 26 Jul, 2024 00:14
-
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VANDENBERG RELEASES NEW LAUNCH ALERT MESSAGES
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – July 25, 2024 – Vandenberg Space Force Base recently released a new launch alert messaging system to provide updates on launches and important news updates. The new system allows users to select from notification topic’s as well as how to receive notifications.
The system offers updates via text and email. To sign up for alerts, visit
https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDODSFVANDENBERG/signup/41755"With the rise in launch operations at Vandenberg, it is crucial for us to maintain clear and frequent communication with the local and regional community," said Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander. "Our new alert system is designed to enhance transparency and keep residents informed."
In order to support transparency in Vandenberg launch operations, Vandenberg leadership has taken significant steps this year to aid in beach access and public awareness. The base reworked launch operations to minimize beach closures, implemented a text message and email launch alert option, and continued a rigorous environmental monitoring process. The USSF works closely and continuously with federal and state regulatory agencies and partners to ensure the highest standards as evidenced by Vandenberg’s pristine 46 miles of continuous California coastline.
Launch information will still be posted on the base website at
www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil and all Vandenberg social media platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn
-30-