The 741st Missile Squadron at Minot AFB, N.D., recently conducted a successful simulation of six Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launches, according to an Oct. 17 press release. Air Force Global Strike Command usually performs a Simulated Electronic Launch-Minuteman (SELM) twice a year. Maintainers spend more than 1,500 man hours to prepare, execute, and follow up on maintenance actions required to conduct the exercise. “The basic objective of SELM is to assess reliability of the Minuteman III weapon system, to include the Airborne Launch Control System in its deployed environment,” said Lt. Col. Mike Harrison, 741st MS director of operations and SELM test support manager, according to the release. The Air Force also performs live tests of its ICBM fleet, launching missiles from Vandenberg AFB, Calif. The most recent live test was conducted in February. Minot Spokeswoman 2nd Lt. Kylee Ashton said the SELM took place Sept. 27-29.
SDA’s Next Phase of Data Transport Satellites on Hold
June 30, 2025
The long-term future of one of the Space Development Agency’s two satellite constellations is on hold as officials study the options for replacing a planned “data transport layer” with one or more commercial solutions. President Trump’s proposed 2026 defense budget...