Time of tension: US missile test amid election drama
The American army plans to conduct a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch is set to take place right after the polling stations close.
Military officials assure that the test is routine and was planned many years in advance. Its purpose is to demonstrate the readiness of American nuclear forces and to reinforce confidence in the national nuclear deterrence capabilities, especially in light of concerns about the potential outbreak of World War III.
Nearly 6,760 kilometres in 20 minutes
The Minuteman III missile will cover 6,760 kilometres, which is over 6,760 kilometres from California to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific in about 22 minutes. It is capable of reaching speeds over 24,000 kilometres per hour, allowing it to reach any target in the world within 30 minutes of launch.
It is currently a key element of the American nuclear arsenal, but it is planned to be retired by 2029 and replaced by the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM system.
Another such test
The previous such test took place in June from the same base. Colonel Bryan Titus, deputy commander of Space Launch Delta 30, emphasised the importance of these activities. "These tests are immensely important not only for the defence of our country but also demonstrate the unique capabilities and experience of our dedicated team," he emphasised.
The test takes place amid escalating international tensions. Russia's foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, recently warned that the US and Russia are close to a direct military conflict. "Under the current president, who has brought the spiral of Russophobia in the US to its logical conclusion, our countries are on the brink of direct military conflict," he said in an interview with the "Hurriyet" newspaper.
Asked about the elections in the US, in which Donald Trump faces Kamala Harris, Lavrov said that the outcome won't matter much for Russia. "Regardless of who wins the election, we do not think that the anti-Russian stance of the United States will change," he stated.
