US Air Force Cancels ICBM Test Launch Due to 'Anomaly'

© AP Photo / Charlie RiedelInert Minuteman 3 missile is seen in a training launch tube at Minot Air Force Base, N.D. (File)
Inert Minuteman 3 missile is seen in a training launch tube at Minot Air Force Base, N.D. (File) - Sputnik International
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WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The US Air Force terminated a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Air Force Base early on Tuesday morning due to an unexpected event during its flight, Global Strike Command said in a press release.

"The 30th Space Wing safely terminated an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile over the Pacific Ocean at 4:42 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time today during a test launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California," the release said on Tuesday.

(File) An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launches from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, United States during an operational test at 12:03 a.m., PDT, in this April 26, 2017 handout photo - Sputnik International
WATCH Test Launch of Minuteman III Missile
The release further said the test launch was terminated due to an anomaly, which is any unexpected event during the test.

The test launch helps the command post evaluate the Minuteman III and collect data to keep the system effective, the release said.

The test launch also allows the command to identify and correct any issues with the weapon system in order to ensure its reliability and accuracy, the release added.

The US Air Force is forming a team to investigate the cause of the failed test launch, the release said.

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