The Pentagon tested a Minuteman III ICBM

The U.S. military conducted a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday, the Pentagon said, adding that in accordance with the Hague Code and treaty obligations, the United States had given advance notice to Russia.

Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder announced at today’s briefing that “a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile by U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command was conducted from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California early this morning, September 7.”

A U.S. Defense Department spokesman called the test routine and said it should demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and instill confidence in the safety and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.

Last month, the United States was already prepared to test the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, but postponed it to avoid escalating tensions with Beijing during a Chinese show of force near Taiwan.