The United States conducts a Minuteman III ballistic missile test to show that its nuclear arsenal is ready.
According to the military, the launch aids in "validating and verifying the safety, security, efficacy, and readiness of the missile system."
The test was carried out from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California, on Tuesday at 12:49 a.m. PT.
For 60 years, Minuteman missiles have served as the backbone of the United States' land-based nuclear arsenal.
After a postponement earlier this month to prevent escalating tensions with China over Taiwan, the test was conducted on Tuesday.
Typically, the Air Force tests four Minuteman III missiles per year.
the examinations being scheduled for weeks, months, or even years in advance