Global Security Newswire
Daily News on Nuclear, Biological & Chemical Weapons, Terrorism and Related Issues
U.S. ICBM Launched in Test
A U.S. Minuteman 3 ICBM functioned as intended during a trial launch on Wednesday morning from California, the Air Force said.
The nuclear-capable missile took off at 3:07 a.m. local time from Vandenberg Air Force Base. The intent of such launches is to "validate and verify the effectiveness, readiness and accuracy of the weapon system," Air Force Global Strike Command officials said in a press release.
"Every successful test launch is the culmination of a tremendous amount of teamwork and preparation," Col. David Lair, 576th Flight Test Squadron chief, said in prepared comments. "The data we receive from these tests is vital in ensuring a safe, secure and effective ICBM force."
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NTI Analysis
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Fact Sheet: Building Global Security by Taking Nuclear Weapons off Hair-Trigger Alert
Oct. 15, 2012
Background information, frequently asked questions and why the United States and Russia should take nuclear weapons off hair-trigger alert status.
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North Korea's Procurement Network Strikes Again: Examining How Chinese Missile Hardware Ended Up in Pyongyang
July 31, 2012
Melissa Hanham of the Monterey Institute of International Studies traces the the alleged transfer of missile technology from China to North Korea and discusses the implications for China's nonproliferation efforts.
Country Profile
United States
This article provides an overview of the United States’ historical and current policies relating to nuclear, chemical, biological and missile proliferation.
