US conducts first missile test of 2025 with Minuteman III launch from California

The U.S. conducted its first missile test of 2025, launching an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from California. The missile traveled over 4,200 miles to a test site in the Pacific Ocean. The U.S. Air Force stated the test was routine and not a response to current global events. They notified Russia in advance, but it is unclear if China received prior warning. The Minuteman III is part of the U.S. nuclear triad, which is being modernized. The new Sentinel ICBM is set to replace the Minuteman III, though it faces delays and budget issues.