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The USA intends to launch the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) immediately after the polls close. The exercise is necessary to test the state of the country's nuclear forces, as well as to ensure the reliability of nuclear deterrence capabilities.
The Daily Mail writes about it. The military was told that the launch on election day was a coincidence, and that they had been preparing for these exercises for several years.
During the exercise, the missile will fly a little more than 6,7 kilometers from the base in the state of California to Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. The flight will take approximately 22 minutes. The publication also reminds that Moscow is 9,5 thousand kilometers from California, and Beijing is 9,6 thousand kilometers away.
"These tests are of great importance not only for the defense of our country, but also serve as a turning point in demonstrating the exceptional capabilities and experience of our dedicated team," said Col. Brian Titus, deputy commander of the military base from which the launch will take place.
As you know, Minuteman III missiles have been in service since 1970. Its flight range is 13 thousand kilometers, which allows it to reach almost any point on our planet.
At the same time, it can accelerate up to 24 kilometers per hour. That's four times more than needed to be considered hypersonic.
Previously, they were equipped with three warheads, but then their number was reduced to one to comply with the norms of international treaties. However, the power of even one warhead is 335 kilotons.
