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Minuteman

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Minuteman 1 Credit: via Andreas Parsch

AKA: LGM-30;LGM-30A;LGM-30A/B/F;SM-80. Status: Retired 1993.

The operational drawbacks of the first generation liquid-propellant Atlas and Titan ICBM's were apparent. The use of liquid oxygen oxidizer meant they were not ready for immediate launch; they took dozens of minutes to fuel. The Soviet Union's ICBM's could destroy them in a first strike while still on their pads. Clearly a launch-on-command solid propellant weapon would be the answer, but in the early 1950's solid propellant technology was not ready. However a series of development motors of increasing size and performance made the solid propellant ICBM feasible by 1957.

The Minuteman program was started in February 1958, with Boeing selected as prime contractor in October. Use of three stages, new miniaturized inertial navigation systems, and small nuclear warheads meant that the Minuteman would have a fraction of the cost, weight, and silo size of the Atlas and Titan missiles it would replace. The perceived (but non-existent) missile gap with the Soviet Union and the vulnerability of the Atlas missiles made Minuteman the highest national priority. 1,000 silos were to be built across the United States in one of the largest construction projects in history.

First test launches began in 1960; first silo launch in November 1961. The first of 150 provisional Minuteman IA missiles became operational in November 1962. Deployment of 650 production-standard Minuteman IB's took place between April 1963 and June 1965. Plans to develop a mobile train-launched version of the missile were dropped in December 1961. Minuteman I's were progressively replaced by later Minuteman II and III models, with the last IA being retired in 1969, and the last IB in 1974. 2400 Minuteman of various models were built between 1961 and 1977. Operational missiles have been continuously refurbished since then, with motors being replaced or refilled when the solid propellant developed sags and cracks with age. The missile's electronics and ground support systems have been replaced by newer technology as obsolescence made earlier systems impossible to support.

Development Cost $: 2,095.300 million. Recurring Price $: 4.946 million in 1964 dollars. Flyaway Unit Cost 1985$: 1.320 million in 1960 dollars. Initial Operational Capability: 1963. Total Number Built: 925. Total Development Built: 125. Total Production Built: 800.

Alt Air American air-launched target missile. Single-stage launch vehicle air dropped from a C-130 consisting of a surplus Minuteman SR19 stage and a payload section.

Aries American target missile. Space Vector Corporation developed and flew the Aries test vehicle (based on the Minuteman 1 second stage) for Strategic Defense Initiative payloads.

ERIS American anti-ballistic missile. Flight test vehicle for Exoatmospheric Re-Entry Interceptor Subsystem, an anti-ballistic missile hit-to-kill interceptor warhead. The ERIS vehicle itself consisted of surplus Minuteman ICBM second and third stages.

Hera American target missile. Two stage vehicle used as a target for test of anti-ballistic missile systems. The vehicle consisted of surplus Minuteman 2 second and third stages (SR19AJ1 + M57A1).

Minotaur American all-solid orbital launch vehicle. Minotaur was developed for the US Air Force's Orbital/Suborbital Program (OSP) as a low-cost, four-stage Space Launch Vehicle (SLV) using a combination of government-supplied surplus Minuteman II ICBM motors and proven Orbital space launch technologies. The Minotaur 4 version used surplus Peacekeeper rocket stages.

Minuteman 1 Alternate designation for [LGM-30C].

Minuteman 2 American intercontinental ballistic missile. US ICBM. 3 stage vehicle. The LGM-30F Minuteman II used the W56 warhead exclusively with either the Mk. 11B or Mk. 11C re-entry vehicle.

Minuteman 2 PLV American target missile. Launch vehicle using surplus missile motors. PLV was part of the Boeing Lead System Integration (LSI) effort on the National Missile Defense (NMD) program. Lockheed Martin was the manufacturer and prime integrator. PLV used elements first seen on the ERIS program.

Minuteman 3 American four-stage solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile. In the 21st Century, the sole remaining US ICBM.

• Large solid-propellant rocket motor begun - . The Western Development Division's Propulsion Group initiated a research program for a large-size, solid-propellant rocket motor..

• Mobile ICBM. - . Related Persons: Schriever. Major General Bernard A. Schriever, Commander of the Western Development Division, initiated a study of a mobile ICBM..

• USAF solid-propellant research program transferred - . The Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee (AF/BMC) transferred the solid-propellant research program from the Western Development Division to the Wright Air Development Center at Wright-Patterson AFB.

• USAF requests study of second generation ballistic missiles. - . Spacecraft Bus: Man-In-Space-Soonest. The Air Force authorized Ramo-Wooldridge (Guided Missile Research Division) to begin a study of second generation ballistic missiles and space vehicles. (Early BMD-ARDC General Space Chronology, 11 Feb 59.).

• Responsibility for the Minuteman solid-propellant missile given to the Western Development Division. - . Headquarters, Air Research and Development Command assigned responsibility for weapon system planning and management for the solid-propellant missile to the Western Development Division..

• Solid Weapon System Office - . Colonel Charles H. Terhune, Jr., Deputy Commander for Ballistic Missiles, AFBMD, directed the establishment of a small Solid Weapon System Office to continue development efforts on solid-propellants..

• Solid Ballistic Weapon System development begins. - . Colonel Edward N. Hall was relieved of his primary duty as Director, WS 315A (Thor), and assigned primary duty as Director for the Solid Ballistic Weapon System at Air Force Ballistic Missile Division.

• Immediate start for a program that would provide a Minuteman solid-propellant ICBM force by 1965. - . Colonel Edward N. Hall, Director of the Weapon System "Q" Project Office at AFBMD, recommended an immediate start for a program that would provide a solid-propellant ICBM force by 1965..

• Minuteman to enter Air Force weapons inventory in 1963. - . Secretary of the Air Force James H. Douglas, Jr., recommended that the solid-propellant ballistic missile be phased into the Air Force weapons inventory in FY 1963..

• First Minuteman development plan. - . AFBMD submitted the first development plan for the solid-propellant Weapon System "Q" to the Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee. Weapon System "Q" was subsequently redesignated Minuteman..

• Minuteman development approved. - . Related Persons: , McElroy. Secretary of Defense Neil H. McElroy approved Air Force research and development efforts for the three-stage, solid-propellant Minuteman ICBM..

• Development of the Minuteman authorized. - . Headquarters USAF authorized AFBMD to proceed with research and development of the Minuteman..

• WS 133A assigned to Minuteman - . Headquarters ARDC assigned Weapon System Number WS 133A to Minuteman and later the new system was given Strategic Missile Number 80 (SM-80)..

• Minuteman limited to essential research and development. - . Headquarters USAF limited the WS 133A program to essential research and development, with approval of a full-scale solid-propellant ICBM to await an evaluation of Polaris and WS 133A potentials..

• STL responsible for the Minuteman program. - . The Space Technology Laboratories (STL) was made responsible for SE/TD of the Minuteman program..

• Minuteman to be popular name for WS 133A - . Mr. William M. Holaday, DoD Director of Guided Missiles, approved "Minuteman" as the popular name for WS 133A (SM-80)..

• Minuteman propulsion contractors selected. - .

  Headquarters USAF approved the Minuteman source selections of Thiokol Chemical, Aerojet-General, and Hercules Powder Company as the propulsion contractors for the solid-fuel motors of the missile. Avco Corporation was chosen as the reentry vehicle (nose cone) developer, and Autonetics Division of North American Aviation was selected as inertial guidance and control (G&C) system contractor.

• Minuteman inertial guidance - . The Autonetics Division of North American Aviation was awarded a contract to develop the Minuteman inertial guidance and control (G&C) system..

• Minuteman General Operational Requirement GOR 171 issued - .

  Headquarters USAF issued General Operational Requirement (GOR) 171 that established an Air Force requirement for an economical, quick-reaction, solid-propellant or storable liquids ICBM weapon system. Initial operational capability (IOC) was set as FY1963. The Minuteman (WS 133A) was intended to fulfill this requirement.

• Largely as a result of the successful Thor/Able reentry tests, Brigadier General Osmond J. - .

  Ritland, AFBMD Vice Commander, reoriented the Division's reentry vehicle research and development program. Avco was directed to cancel its work on a y copper "heat sink" reentry vehicle. General Electric's Mark II copper "heat sink" nose con^ would be used on Thor IRBMs and early model Atlas ICBMs. Moreover, GE was assigned to start work on lightweight, second generation nose cones for heavier warheads.

• WS 133A Project Office - . Colonel Otto J. Glasser became Director, WS 133A Project Office, at AFBMD, replacing Colonel Edward N. Hall..

• As the Air Force began studying the feasibility of a mobile ballistic missile system. - . Related Persons: Schriever. Major General Bernard A. Schriever directed AFBMD to investigate the possibility of a mobile version of the new solid fuel ICBM (later Minuteman)..

• Minuteman reentry vehicle contract - . The Minuteman reentry vehicle contract was formally awarded to the Avco Manufacturing Corporation..

• Assembly and test contractor for the Minuteman missile. - . The Boeing Airplane Company was selected as the assembly and test contractor for the Minuteman missile..

• Contract for the missile assembly and test contractor for Minuteman. - . The Boeing Airplane Company was awarded a contract as the missile assembly and test contractor for Minuteman..

• Acceleration of the Minuteman development program. - . The Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee forwarded to the OSD Ballistic Missile Committee a proposal to accelerate the Minuteman development program..

• Acceleration of the Minuteman program. - . Related Persons: Power. General Thomas S. Power, Commander-in-Chief, Strategic Air Command (CINCSAC), recommended acceleration of the Minuteman program..

• Largest solid-propellant engine in the world fired. - . The Thiokol Chemical Corporation tested a heavyweight Minuteman Stage I engine containing 44,000 pounds of propellant. This was the largest solid-propellant engine yet fired in the world..

• First Minuteman Stage II fired. - . Aerojet-General Corporation successfully test fired its first Minuteman Stage II engine..

• Thiokol Chemical Corporation fired its first Stage II test engine for Minuteman. - .

• Rail-mobile ICBM system. - . AFBMD submitted to the Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee a development plan for an operational rail-mobile ICBM system..

• Accelerated Minuteman development program. - . The Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) approved the Air Force's proposal for an accelerated Minuteman development program and authorized AFBMD to take all necessary actions to accelerate..

• Phillips named Director of Minuteman - . Colonel Samuel C. Phillips became Director of the WS 133A (Minuteman) Project Office at AFBMD..

• First full-scale Minuteman Stage I fired. - . Thiokol Chemical Corporation fired the first full-scale, flight-weight Minuteman Stage I engine..

• Minuteman highest priority with other ballistic missile programs. - . Headquarters USAF assigned a "DX" priority rating to the Minuteman development program, thus assuring it the highest priority with other ballistic missile programs in procurement actions..

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

  The first silo launch of a tethered, full-scale Minuteman missile was conducted at Edwards AFB, California, using dummy second and third stages. This was the first time in the Air Force ballistic missile program that the initial test of a missile was conducted on schedule. Fuel for 3 seconds only, tethered launch

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Headquarters USAF approved sites at Ogden and Brigham City, Utah, for Minuteman production facilities. - . Headquarters USAF approved sites at Ogden and Brigham City, Utah, for Minuteman production facilities..

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• First Minuteman Stage II engine. - . Aerojet-General completed the test firing of its first full-scale, flight-weight Minuteman Stage II engine..

• Minuteman ICBM accelerated - . Production go-ahead for the Minuteman ICBM was accelerated from January 1961 to July 1960..

• Contractor for Minuteman Stage II - . Aerojet-General was selected as the production contractor for Minuteman Stage II engines..

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Malmstrom AFB, Montana, was selected as the location for the first Minuteman wing (Wing I)..

• 150 Minuteman missiles by mid-1963. - . The Department of Defense authorized the Air Force to make the necessary production commitments required to achieve a force of 150 Minuteman missiles by mid-1963..

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Silo test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi). A tethered Minuteman missile was successfully fired from an underground silo site at Edwards AFB, California. 8th and last launch of mockup..

• Contract for Minuteman operational guidance and control systems . - . The Autonetics Division of North American Aviation was awarded a contract to produce the first increment of Minuteman operational guidance and control (G&C) systems and associated equipment..

• Installation and checkout of Minuteman operational facilities. - . The Boeing Airplane Company was selected as integrating contractor for installation and checkout of Minuteman operational facilities..

• Reduced specifications for the first 150 Minuteman missiles. - .

  The Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee supported Ballistic Missile Division's recommendation to accept reduced range, reliability, and warhead specifications for the first 150 Minuteman missiles. Instead development of an improved Minuteman with better performance for subsequent deployment would be undertaken (LGM-30B).

• Hercules selected for Minuteman Stage III - . The Hercules Powder Company was selected to continue research development, and production of the Minuteman Stage III solid-propellant rocket engine..

• First Minuteman squadron advanced by one year to July 1962. - . The initial operational capability (IOC) date for the first Minuteman squadron was advanced by one full year, from July 1963 to July 1962..

• First Minuteman Stage I flight test engine - . Thiokol Chemical Corporation delivered the first Minuteman Stage I flight test engine to Cape Canaveral..

• Ellsworth AFB - . The Air Force Ballistic Missile and Space Committee directed the selection of Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, as the support base for the second wing (Wing II) of 150 hardened and dispersed Minutemen..

• Minuteman Mark 11 reentry vehicle begun. - . The Avco Manufacturing Company was directed to begin development of the Minuteman Mark 11 reentry vehicle so that it would be available for early introduction of a more advanced warhead..

• Contracts issued for initial Minuteman IOC - . Letter contracts were issued to Thiokol Chemical Corporation (Stage I), Aerojet-General Corporation (Stage II), and Hercules Powder Company (Stage III) for initial Minuteman IOC capability..

• Minot and Whiteman AFB - . Minot AFB, North Dakota, was selected as the site for Minuteman Wing III, and Whiteman AFB, Missouri, was chosen as Wing IV's location..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  At 1059 EST, the first Minuteman research and development flight test missile (FTM 401) was launched by the 6555th Test Wing from Pad 31 at the Atlantic Missile Range. All the missiles stages and subsystems were operational, marking the first time that the first flight test missile was launched with all systems and stages functioning. FTM 401 completed a 4,600-mile flight, and its reentry vehicle impacted in the designated target area. This was the most successful first flight recorded in the history of U.S. missile development.

• Malmstrom AFB - . The construction of Wing I Minuteman operational facilities at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, was begun with the excavation for the Flight A launch control center (LCC) and three silos..

• Minuteman was accorded the first priority and was to be undertaken as a crash effort. - . Major General Osmond J. Ritland, Commander,'AFBMD, and Major General Thomas P.. Gerrity, Commander, Ballistic Missile Center (BMC), issued the joint policy letter based on directives from Defense Department..

• Titan force reduced from 14 to 12 squadrons. - . Related Persons: , Kennedy.

  President John F. Kennedy reduced the FY 1962 budget for the Titan force from 14 to 12 squadrons. Accordingly, the Air Force Ballistic Missile Committee cancelled the two Titan II squadrons planned for Griffiss AFB, New York. In addition, the President deferred the current plans for three mobile Minuteman missile squadrons.

• Mobile Minuteman force deferred - . The Mobile Minuteman force of three squadrons was officially deferred, and three fixed-base squadrons were added..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi). The first attempt to launch a Minuteman missile from an underground silo (Silo 32B) at the Atlantic Missile Range was a complete failure when the missile (FTM 404) exploded immediately after first stage ignition. .

• Ellsworth AFB - . Construction began at the Minuteman Wing II site, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota..

• Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman flight test missile 405 was launched from Silo 32B at the Atlantic Missile Range and completed a flight of 2,993 nautical miles down the range. This was the first successful Minuteman launch from an underground silo. Silo launch, 10,000 km range.

• The mobility program for Minuteman weapon systems was cancelled. - .

• Cancellation of the mobile Minuteman program. - . Deputy Secretary of Defense Roswell L. Gilpatric announced the cancellation of the mobile Minuteman program..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Grand Forks AFB - . The Air Force officially announced the selection of Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota, as the site for the sixth and final Minuteman operational wing (Wing VI)..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - . Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming, was selected as the site for Minuteman Wing V..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Contract for Minuteman II. - . A new contract with Boeing authorized initial planning and testing for the Wing VI Block Change - the new designation for Improved Minuteman, later to become Minuteman II (LGM-30F)..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - . Headquarters USAF officially announced that Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming, would be the site for the fifth wing of Minuteman ICBMs..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). First Air Force crew launch.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

• Grand Forks AFB - . The designated Systems Management Group selected Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota, as the operational location for Minuteman Wing VI, the first Minuteman II (LGM-30F) unit..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

• Minuteman System Program Office completed transfer to Norton AFB. - . The last elements of the Minuteman System Program Office completed their transfer from Los Angeles to Ballistic Systems Division's new headquarters at Norton AFB..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development Category I test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi). The first R&D Category I launch of a Wing I configuration Minuteman missile (LGM-30A), from Vandenberg AFB was completed. Initial launch of a Minuteman I from Vandenberg.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Flight A, 10th Strategic Missile Squadron, 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, was the first flight of Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missile launchers to be delivered to SAC..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) flight test missile (FTM 424) was launched from Cape Canaveral. .

• Research and development Category I test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 20 km (12 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Minuteman weapon system (WS 133A) became operational with the turnover of the first two flights of 10 missiles each to SAC's 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 50 km (31 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman FTM 421B was successfully launched from the Eastern Test Range by an all-Air Force crew, thus completing the Atlantic range test program for the Wing I configuration Minuteman missile (LGM-30A). .

• Malmstrom AFB - . Five years after development was approved, the first fully operational Minuteman squadron, the 10th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first successful launch of a fully operational Minuteman missile from Vandenberg by an Air Force crew was completed under simulated operational conditions. .

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first successful launch of a fully operational Minuteman missile from Vandenberg by an Air Force crew was completed under simulated operational conditions. .

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Atlas D,E, and Titan I missiles to be phased out 1965 - 1968. - .

  Headquarters USAF recommended that Atlas D,E, and Titan I missiles be phased out of SAC's active operational inventory between 1965 and 1968. The older liquid-fueled ICBMs were expensive to operate, required a large manpower commitment, were slow-reacting and thus vulnerable when compared to the more advanced Minuteman and Titan II missile that were being deployed.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The 6595th Aerospace Test Wing launched flight test missile 458, the first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile to be launched from Vandenberg. February 1959. Since then, a total of 57 Titan I R&D missiles had been fired - 47 from the Atlantic range and 10 from Vandenberg. Of these, 36 were complete successes, 14 were partially successful, and seven were registered as failures.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Final Minuteman I completed - . The final Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missile was completed at Air Force Plant 77..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman I (LGM-30B) Wing II configuration flight test missile to be launched from Cape Canaveral was launched from Silo 32B. .

• Malmstrom AFB - . The first three-squadron, 150-missile Minuteman wing, the 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, was completed and turned over to SAC..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Flight test missile 518 was launched from Vandenberg AFB. This was the last of 31 Minuteman I (LGM-30A) research and development missiles to be launched - 23 from Cape Canaveral and eight from Vandenberg. .

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Phillips made BSD Vice Commander. - . Brigadier General Samuel C. Phillips became BSD's Vice Commander, and Brigadier General John L. McCoy took over General Phillips' job as Deputy Commander for Minuteman..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Official turnover ceremonies for Minuteman Wing I took place at Malmstrom AFB, Montana..

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Ellsworth AFB - . Work on the first squadron of Minuteman Wing II, the 66th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 44th Strategic Missile Wing at Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota, was completed..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Ellsworth AFB - . The 67th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 44th Strategic Missile Wing at Ellsworth AFB was completed and turned over to SAC by Ballistic Systems Division's Site Activation Task Force (SATAF)..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Mark 12 reentry vehicle - . Headquarters USAF approved General Electric as the contractor for the Mark 12 reentry vehicle system for the Minuteman ICBM..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Mark 12 reentry vehicle - . General Electric began development of the Mark 12 reentry vehicle for use with both the Minuteman and Polaris/Poseidon weapon systems..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC launched the first Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missile (FTM 672) from Vandenberg in its operational testing program. .

• Ellsworth AFB - . With the turnover of the 68th Strategic Missile Squadron, the second Minuteman wing, the 44th Strategic Missile Wing at Ellsworth AFB, was completed and transferred entirely to SAC..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A Minuteman flight test missile with a first stage cylindrical skirt and a gas injection steering system was successfully flight tested. These were Wing VI technical innovations that would be introduced with the Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missile. .

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Phillips appointed Deputy Director of the Apollo Program - . Spacecraft Bus: Apollo Lunar Landing. Spacecraft: Apollo. Brigadier General Samuel C. Phillips, Vice Commander, Ballistic Systems Division, and former Minuteman program director, was appointed Deputy Director of the Apollo Manned Lunar Landing Program (NASA).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Engineering responsiblity for Wing I Minuteman missiles (LGM-30A) was transferred from Ballistic Systems Division (AFSC) to Ogden Air Materiel Area (AFLC), Hill AFB, Utah..

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minot AFB - . The 740th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 455th Strategic Missile Wing (Wing III) at Minot AFB, North Dakota, was turned over to SAC..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman 2 announced - . Related Persons: , McNamara.

  During the Defense Department budget hearings before the House Armed Services Committee, Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara announced that a Minuteman Force Modernization Program would be established to replace the earlier model Minuteman I (LGM-30A and LGM-30B) missiles with the more advanced Wing VI configuration, Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missile, in Wings I - V. In his FY 1965 budget request, Secretary McNamara also included $110 million for continued development of the Mobile Mid-Range Ballistic Missile (MMRBM) weapon system.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Transportable Mid-Range Ballistic Missile (TMRBM). - . Dr. Harold Brown, Director of Defense Research and Engineering (DDR&E), directed the Air Force to make a feasibility study of a Transportable Mid-Range Ballistic Missile (TMRBM). This would use the second and third stages of the Minuteman ICBM..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development [After 48E] test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The first successful multiple Minuteman ICBM launch was executed at the Pacific Missile Range when two Wing II Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missiles (FTM 813 and 688) were launched by SAC's First Strategic Aerospace Division (ISTRAD). Both missiles were launched separately in the salvo mode; the ripple mode was not used for these launches. These were also the initial two Minuteman IB operational test launches.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The first successful multiple Minuteman ICBM launch was executed at the Pacific Missile Range when two Wing II Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missiles (FTM 813 and 688) were launched by SAC's First Strategic Aerospace Division (ISTRAD). Both missiles were launched separately in the salvo mode; the ripple mode was not used for these launches. These were also the initial two Minuteman IB operational test launches.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minot AFB - . The 455th Strategic Missile Wing's second Minuteman I (LGM-30B) squadron, the 741st Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to SAC at Minot AFB, North Dakota..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The second multiple launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles was conducted at Vandenberg AFB. Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missiles (FTM 581 and 636) were successfully launched from Vandenberg 20 minutes apart in the first ripple mode launch ever conducted. In this mode, a single launch crew gave both commands to launch.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The second multiple launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles was conducted at Vandenberg AFB. Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missiles (FTM 581 and 636) were successfully launched from Vandenberg 20 minutes apart in the first ripple mode launch ever conducted. In this mode, a single launch crew gave both commands to launch.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . The 500th operational Minuteman missile, a Wing IV configuration (LGM-30B), was shipped from Air Force Plant 77 at Ogden Air Materiel Area (OOAMA), Utah, to Whiteman AFB, Missouri..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minot AFB - . The third wing of Minuteman ICBMs was completed when the 742d Strategic Missile Squadron was turned over to SAC at Minot AFB. The Minuteman force then totaled 450 missiles..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . The first squadron of Minuteman Wing IV, the 508th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 351st Strategic Missile Wing at Whiteman AFB, Missouri, was turned over to SAC..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . Wing IV's second Minuteman squadron, the 509th Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to SAC's 351st Strategic Missile Wing at Whiteman AFB, Missouri..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - .

  Flight N, the final 10 Minuteman missiles of the 510th Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to the 351st Strategic Missile Wing at Whiteman AFB, Missouri. This completed Wing VI and brought the total number of Minuteman missiles turned over to SAC to 600.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• One additional squadron of 50 Minuteman II missiles. - . Headquarters USAF announced that one additional squadron of 50 Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missiles would be collocated with the existing three Minuteman I (LGM-30A) squadrons of the 341st SMW..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT (ECP VER) operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - . The initial Minuteman squadron of Wing V, the 319th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 90th Strategic Missile Wing at Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming, was completed and turned over to SAC..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first Minuteman II (LGM-30F) test missile (FTM 449) was successfully launched down the Eastern Test Range from Silo 32B. .

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

  The final Minuteman I (LGM-30B) R&D flight test missile (FTM 445) was launched from Cape Canaveral. This brought the total number of Minuteman IB launches to 36 - 31 from the Eastern Test Range and five from Vandenberg. A total of 67 Minuteman I (LGM-30A and LGM-30B) flight test missiles had been launched since FTM 101 on 1 February 1961, 54 from the Cape and 13 from Vandenberg.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The final Minuteman I (LGM-30B) R&D flight test missile (FTM 445) was launched from Cape Canaveral. This brought the total number of Minuteman IB launches to 36 - 31 from the Eastern Test Range and five from Vandenberg. A total of 67 Minuteman I (LGM-30A and LGM-30B) flight test missiles had been launched since FTM 101 on 1 February 1961, 54 from the Cape and 13 from Vandenberg.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). SAC's Minuteman IA operational test program concluded after 24 launches with the launch of FTM 661 from Vandenberg. .

• Atlas E,F, and Titan I ICBMs to be retired from the active operational inventory. - . Related Persons: , McNamara.

  Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara officially announced his decision to retire Atlas E,F, and Titan I ICBM weapon systems from the active operational inventory. They were said to be no longer supportable from requirements, cost, or manpower use standpoints. Moreover, the relative slow-reacting, liquid-fueled Atlas and Titan I missiles had provided the initial deterrent that was necessary and would now be replaced by the less vulnerable, more easily maintained Minuteman and Titan II ICBMs.

• 1,000 Minuteman missile launchers by 1967 - . The Department of Defense directed a build-up of the Minuteman force to 20 squadrons (1,000 missile launchers) by the end of FY1967..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 0 km (0 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman force cut from 1,200 to 1,000 - .

  The operational Minuteman force would number 1,000 missiles in six operational wings with a total of 20 squadrons by the end of FY1967 rather than the previously planned 1,200 missiles. The Office of the Secretary of Defense directed a Force Modernization program that would provide the Minuteman I wings with capabilities equivalent to those of the Minuteman II (LGM-30F). Force Modernization was to begin in July 1966, with retrofit to proceed on a squadron-by-squadron basis (later changed to wing-by-wing). Other improvements in the Minuteman systems were directed.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - . The second of Francis E. Warren's four Minuteman squadrons, the 320th Strategic Missile Squadron, was completed and turned over to SAC's 90th Strategic Missile Wing..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Mark 12 MIRV approved. - . Minuteman program office approved the development of the Mark 12 multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) system..

• By June 1965, 150 more ICBM sites would be inactivated. - .

  The Defense Department announced that by the end of FY1965 (June 1965), 150 more ICBM sites would be inactivated and the Atlas E, F, and Titan I missiles removed and placed in storage. The missiles werer stored at San Bernardino Air Materiel Area (SBAMA) facilities at Norton AFB, California. The retired missiles would be replaced by more advanced Minuteman missiles whose annual combat-ready costs were $100,000 per missile compared to nearly $1.0 million for each of the older, more complicated liquid-fueled ICBMs.. In addition, manpower savings would be substantial since only 12 men were required for support of each Minuteman versus approximately 80 for each Atlas or Titan.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Ellsworth AFB - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF. Apogee: 1.00 km (0.60 mi).

  Operation Long Life, the first test launch of a specially designed Minuteman test missile from an operational launch facility, was successfully concluded at Wing II, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota. With a first stage engine designed to burn only a short time, the Long Life missile carried dummy second and third stages that were up to full operational weight. The missile landed about a mile from the silo after a first stage burn of seven seconds. Approved by the Secretary of Defense in November 1964, 'Project Long Life' called for the short-range launch from on operational missile base of three modified Minuteman IB ICBMs to provide a realistic test for this system. Each missile would contain enough propellant for a 7-second flight and have inert upper stages and reentry vehicles. This first launch occurred on March 1, 1965, and successfully demonstrated the ability of a SAC missile crew to launch an ICBM.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman Retrofit Program - . The Minuteman Retrofit Program was changed from a squadron to a wing conversion basis..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - . The third Wing V Minuteman squadron, the 321st Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to SAC at Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman force of 1,000 missiles by the end of FY1967. - .

  Headquarters USAF issued a Minuteman system program directive (SPD) that established an operational force of 1,000 missiles by the end of FY1967. It also directed implementation of the Force Modernization Program to configure the entire force with Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missiles by FY 1972.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Warren AFB - .

  The fourth and final Wing V Minuteman squadron, the 400th Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to SAC's 90th Strategic Missile Wing at Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming. This action completed the only four-squadron wing of Minuteman missiles yet deployed The 90th SMW's 200 missiles brought to 800 the total number of Minuteman missiles turned over to SAC.

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Grand Forks AFB - . The first operational Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missile was delivered to Wing VI, Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota..

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The last of 50 Minuteman I (LGM-30B) operational test launches was conducted by SAC's First Strategic Aerospace Division (1STRAD). .

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Post Boost Control System for Minuteman - .

  Ballistic Systems Division directed Autonetics Division of North American Aviation to proceed with the development of a Post Boost Control System for Minuteman. This would incorporate guidance, propulsion, and directional control of a reentry vehicle after it separated from the third-stage motor.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The 500th major launch from Vandenberg AFB since 16 December 1958 was also the first Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development missile to be launched down the Western Test Range by the 6595th Aerospace Test Wing as well as the 250th launch from Vandenberg by Air Force Systems Command and its predecessor, Air Research and Development Command.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,000 km (600 mi).

  A SAC crew at Vandenberg launched the 100th Minuteman missile to be fired from Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg. Flight test missile 677 was the first Minuteman I (LGM-30A) follow-on operational test (FOT) launch and the 38th Minuteman 1 missile to be launched from Vandenberg.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Airborne Launch Control System - .

  Headquarters USAF issued a System Management Directive to add an Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS) for Minuteman I and II systems. SAC would then be able to use its EC-135 airborne command post aircraft to launch Minuteman missiles that were isolated from ground control.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Warren AFB - .

  The High Explosive Simulation Technique (HEST) Test began at a Minuteman I, Wing V, launch facility at Francis E. Warren AFB, Wyoming. Developed by the Air Force Weapons Laboratory, the HEST Test was intended to use high explosives to simulate ground motions associated with, and induced by, a nuclear airblast and thus validate hardness assessment of ground facilities and the degree of structural survivability.

• Development of the Minuteman III approved - . Related Persons: , McNamara.

  Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara approved development of the Minuteman III (LGM-30G) to increase the future capability of the weapon system. The Minuteman III was to be based on the Minuteman II (LGM-30F) and grew out of the requirement to improve the LGM-30F third stage motor and to add the Mark 12 multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) reentry system. The Minuteman III would have an improved Third Stage, improved propulsion system, enlarged post boost control system, increased hardness throughout the missile, and a new, resized reentry system to provide greater target flexibility with the Mark 12 MIRV reentry system.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first operationally configured Minuteman II (LGM-30F) was fired from an underground silo and completed a flawless flight downrange from Vandenberg AFB..

• Minuteman force of 1,000 missiles by 1972 approved. - . Related Persons: , McNamara.

  A new Minuteman Systems Management Directive was issued covering approved actions to implement the changes in the Minuteman program resulting from Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara's decision in approved Format B of 8 December. This SMD approved a Minuteman force of 1,000 missiles deployed in six wings with 20 squadrons by the close of FY1972. Production of the Mark 12 and Mark 17 reentry systems was approved along with other improvements in the Minuteman system.

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Force modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The first Force Modernization Minuteman II research and development missile (FTM 2022) was launched from a modernized Minuteman I silo at Vandenberg AFB. Performance through first and second stage ignition was satisfactory, but malfunctions forced the missile to be dumped 150 miles down range. The Force Modernization launch program concluded on 11 May 1967 after nine launches.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first SAC Minuteman I (LGM-30B) Follow-On Operational Test (FOT) was conducted from Vandenberg. .

• Contracts issued for the Reentry Vehicle Technology and Observables Program. - .

  Ballistic Systems Division's Deputy for Ballistic Missile Reentry Systems (D/BMRS) awarded letter contracts to the Avco Corporation for the Reentry Vehicle Technology and Observables Phase 1A program (RVTO 1A) and to General Electric for the Phase IB (RVTO IB) flight test program.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The last Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development flight test missile (FTM 2033) was launched from Vandenberg AFB as part of the continuing Minuteman II R&D launch program. .

• Whiteman AFB - . Headquarters USAF announced the beginning of Force Modernization at Wing IV, Whiteman AFB, Missouri..

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) supported the first simultaneous ("salvo") launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles - Flight Test Missiles 529 and 629. The launches were intended to evaluate multiple-firing techniques to be used in operational conditions.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The Air Force Western Test Range (AFWTR) supported the first simultaneous ("salvo") launch of two SAC Minuteman I missiles - Flight Test Missiles 529 and 629. The launches were intended to evaluate multiple-firing techniques to be used in operational conditions.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Force modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first flight test of the General Electric Mark 12 reentry vehicle was made aboard a Minuteman II (LGM-30F) booster fired from Vandenberg. .

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman III improvements authorized. - . Headquarters USAF gave Ballistic Systems Division the approval necessary to proceed with the development of the Mark 17 reentry vehicle, the Improved Third Stage (ITS)..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Contract for Minuteman III development. - . Ballistic Systems Division used a contract change notice in the Boeing contract to incorporate the Minuteman III development into the Minuteman program..

• Minuteman 3 approved - .

  A Headquarters USAF Systems Management Directive (SMD) for Minuteman I and IT directed that an Improved Third Stage (ITS) propulsion system. This would be used with the Mark 12 and Mark 17 reentry vehicles and a Post Boost Control System (PBCS) and that initial operational capability (IOC) be achieved in July 1969. The Minuteman with the new third stage was designated the Minuteman III (LGM-30G) weapon system and was to be compatible with either the WS 133B or WS 133A/M ground systems.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Grand Forks AFB - . The first complete Minuteman II (LGM-30F) squadron, the 447th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 321st Strategic Missile Wing (SAC), entered operational service. The squadron was declared fully operational on 3 May..

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . Force Modernization conversion from Minuteman I (LGM-30B) to Minuteman II (LGM-30F) began at Wing IV, Whiteman AFB, Missouri..

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Force modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Commander of Ballistic Systems Division - .

  Major General John L. McCoy became Commander of Ballistic Systems Division replacing Major General Harry J. Sands, Jr., who was reassigned as Commandant, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama. Brigadier General Arthur W. Cruikshank replaced General McCoy as Deputy for Minuteman.

• Force modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 100 km (60 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . The first two Minuteman flights to complete Force Modernization at Wing IV, Whiteman AFB, Missouri, were turned over to the. 509th Strategic Missile Squadron of the 351st Strategic Missile Wing..

• Grand Forks AFB - .

  The final Minuteman II (LGM-30F) squadron of Wing VI, the 448th Strategic Missile Squadron, was turned over to SAC's 321st Strategic Missile Wing at Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota. This brought Minuteman ICBM strength to 950 missile launchers - Wings I-V with 800 Minuteman I (LGM-30A/B) and Wing VI with 150 Minuteman II (LGM-30F) missiles. Boeing checkout and formal turnover to SAC were completed on 7 December.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ERCS 1 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). First Emergency Rocket Communications Satellite test.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Flight operational test / salvo launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Flight operational test / salvo launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Force modification research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The third and final Minuteman II flight test missile with a Mark 12 reentry vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB. .

• First Minuteman III third stage motor fired - . The first Minuteman III third stage development motor (TFW-3) was successfully static test fired by Thiokol..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ERCS 2 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . The final flight of the first Force Modernized Minuteman squadron at Whiteman AFB, Missouri, was turned back to SAC's 351st Strategic Missile Wing..

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - ripple launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - ripple launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . The 1,000th Minuteman missile, an LGM-30F, was shipped to Squadron 20 at Malmstrom AFB and emplaced on 23 March. Squadron 20 would add an additional 50 Minuteman II silos to the 150 Minuteman 1A already emplaced..

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• First flight test of the Airborne Launch Control System - . The first flight test of the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS) was successfully conducted..

• ERCS 3 Communications mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Last Emergency Rocket Communications Satellite test.

• Malmstrom AFB - .

  The final flight of Squadron 20 Minuteman III missiles was turned over to SAC. This brought the strength of the 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB to 200 Minuteman missiles. The formal turnover on 3 May completed the deployment of the programmed 1,000 Minuteman missile launchers.

• ST Olympic Trials 1 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 100th Minuteman IB (LGM-30B) missile (#65-101) was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California. .

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 100th Minuteman IB (LGM-30B) missile (#65-101) was launched from Vandenberg AFB, California. .

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . Ballistic Systems Division announced that the 20th Minuteman ICBM squadron, Squadron 20 (the 564th Strategic Missile Squadron) at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, was now operational..

• Force modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

  The ninth, and last, Force Modernization Minuteman II (LGM-30F) research and development flight test missile^ FTM 2095, was launched from Vandenberg AFB. This missile also carried the fourth Mark 12 reentry vehicle to be test flown on a Minuteman missile launched from Vandenberg AFB.

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic Trials 2 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Follow-on operational missile test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Space and Missile Systems Organization (SAMSO) created. - . Spacecraft: ABRES.

  The functions and personnel of Space Systems Division and Ballistic Systems Division were combined to form the new Space and Missile Systems Organization (SAMSO). Major General Paul T. Cooper, former SSD commander, becoming Deputy Commander for Space, and Major General John L. McCoy, the last BSD commander, becoming Deputy Commander for Missiles. Headquarters SAMSO took over SSD headquarters while General McCoy remained at Norton AFB with the Minuteman and Advanced Ballistic Reentry Systems (ABRES) program offices.

• FOT GB40 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB42 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Whiteman AFB - . The final squadron of Wing IV at Whiteman AFB was received from SAC's 351st Strategic Missile Wing for Force Modernization..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIN BABY I research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic Trials 3 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB45 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB46 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB47 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB48 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Dual-capable silo for the Minuteman III weapon system. - .

  Headquarters USAF planners began to move away from the concept of the WS 120A Advanced ICBM missile system and toward the concept of a dual-capable silo for the Minuteman III weapon system. Using the basing concept devised for WS 120A, the new approach was to concentrate on the development of a silo that could hold the Minuteman III when it became operational and could later accommodate an advanced ICBM.

• Whiteman AFB - . The final flight of Force Modernization Minuteman II missiles was turned over to SAC at Whiteman AFB. Wing IV was completed on schedule and turned back to SAC's 351st Strategic Missile Wing..

• Whiteman AFB - .

  The first phase of the Minuteman ICBM Force Modernization (WS 133A-Modernized or WS 133A-M) program was officially completed. This was marked by the formal turnover of 150 Minuteman it (LGM-30F) missile launchers to SAC's 351st Strategic Missile Wing at Whiteman AFB, Missouri. The completion of the first Force Modernization wing gave the Strategic Air Command 350 of the advanced Minuteman II missiles out of the total force of 1,000 Minuteman ICBMs.

• ST Olympic Trials 4 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Minuteman System Program Office (SPO) reorganized. - .

  As a result of a Minuteman Task Force Study, Headquarters SAMSO reorganized and strengthened the Minuteman System Program Office (SPO) at Norton AFB. This action finally ended the management system that had been functioning since Ballistic Systems Division completed its move to Norton in August 1962. In addition, the systems engineering and technical direction (SE/TD) function for Minuteman, previously divided between TRW Systems Group and Aerospace Corporation, was given completely to TRW with Aerospace to be phased out of the Minuteman program.

• GIN BABY II research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB51 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB52 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIN BABY III research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and technology/modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GB50 Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIN BABY IV research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . The first flight of the first Wing I squadron to complete Force Modernization to the LGM-30F, the 12th Strategic Missile Squadron, was. returned to SAC's 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB..

• FOT GT01B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Cancellation of the advanced Mark 17 reentry vehicle development. - .

  An Air Force System Management Directive (SMD) confirmed cancellation of the advanced Mark 17 reentry vehicle development. This revised the operational deployment schedule for Minuteman III (LGM-30G), and slipped Force Modernization of the Minuteman wings by an additional six months.

• FOT GT02B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 125th Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile was launched from Vandenberg AFB and was the 200th Minuteman ICBM to be launched down the Western Test Range since September 1962. .

• FOT GT03B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 125th Minuteman I (LGM-30B) missile was launched from Vandenberg AFB and was the 200th Minuteman ICBM to be launched down the Western Test Range since September 1962. .

• ST Olympic Trials 5 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIN BABY V research and development mission - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic Trials 6 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Cancellation of the Mark 17 reentry vehicle - . The Defense Department officially announced cancellation of the Mark 17 reentry vehicle program after expenditure of $45 million..

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic Trials 7 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic Trials 8 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-1 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman II (LGM-30F), FTM 468, carrying a research and development Mark 12 reentry vehicle, was launched from Silo 32 at Cape Canaveral. This was the 26th Minuteman II R&D launch - 20 from the Eastern Test Range and six from Vandenberg. .

• Research and technology/modification test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The final Mark 12 reentry vehicle test launch was conducted from Vandenberg AFB..

• Advanced ICBM Program dissolved. - . The Advanced ICBM (WS 120A) Provisional System Program Office (SPO) at Norton was dissolved; most personnel went to the Minuteman SPO as the core cadre for the Hard Rock Silo effort..

• ST Olympic Trials 9 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-2 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIANT BLADE 1 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Hard Rock Silo Program - .

  Headquarters USAF issued a System Management Directive (SMD) to initiate the Hard Rock Silo (HRS) Development Program for Minuteman III. The aim of the program was to develop and test a new, very hard basing system that would be compatible with an Advanced ICBM but initially used for Minuteman III. This SMD was the culmination of previous studies undertaken by the Defense Department and the Air Force on advanced ICBM systems.

• ST Olympic T. B-3 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - . The final flight of the first Force Modernization squadron at Wing I, the 12th Strategic Missile Squadron, was completed and returned to SAC..

• Malmstrom AFB - .

  Force Modernization work was officially completed on the first squadron (12th Strategic Missile Squadron) of Minuteman II missiles at Malmstrom AFB, Montana. The work included renovation of the underground launch facilities (LFs) so that they would accommodate the Minuteman II missile.

• GIANT FIST 1 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-4 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development test - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The first 76,000-pound Minuteman III (LGM-30G) flight test missile (FTM 201) was launched from Silo 32 at Cape Canaveral and completed a successful flight 5,000 miles downrange. First Minuteman III flight test missile launched from Vandenberg AFB..

• ST (Partial fuel) - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 10 km (6 mi).

• Grand Forks AFB - . A High Explosive Simulation Test (HEST-V) was completed at Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota, to evaluate the effects of surface overpressure on a Minuteman launch facility and its equipment..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIANT FIST 2A demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-5 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Giant Fist 5 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIANT BLADE 2 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-6 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic T. B-7 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GT32B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• The Minuteman II Retrofit program began. - .

• Minuteman I target vehicles for Safeguard - . SAMSO awarded Boeing Airplane Company an integration, instrumentation, and launch service contract for the launch of nine obsolescent Minuteman I missiles as target vehicles for Safeguard ABM tests..

• Giant Fist 5 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Malmstrom AFB - .

  The final Minuteman I (LGM-30A) missile was taken out of its silo at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, marking the end of the operational deployment of the original model Minuteman ICBM missile. This removal was part of the continuing Force Modernization program at Malmstrom.

• ST Olympic T. B-8 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• GIANT FIST 3 demonstration and shakedown operations launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GT33B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GT34B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). Minuteman III (LGM-30G) flight test missile (FTM) 301, the first test missile launched from Vandenberg but the fourth R&D missile to be fired, completed a 5,000-mile flight and impacted near the Marshall Islands. .

• OT GT19M operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST 3 - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GT35B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT5F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT9F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). A SAC crew launched the 50th Minuteman II missile (#64-15525) from Vandenberg AFB. .

• Malmstrom AFB - . The last flight of Force Modernization Minuteman III missiles was turned over to SAC's 341st Strategic Missile Wing at Malmstrom AFB, Montana. Wing I Force Modernization turnover was completed..

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT7F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT11F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• FOT GT37B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Research and development launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF AFSC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• Second supplier for Minuteman III guidance system. - . SAMSO awarded a contract to the Honeywell Aerospace Division, for the first time establishing a second source supplier for the Minuteman III missile guidance and control system..

• FOT GT38B Follow-on Test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• ST Olympic TR. B-9 operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT14F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi). The 250th Minuteman missile to be launched from Vandenberg AFB was a SAC Operational Test flight missile. .

• OT GT12F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).

• OT GT13F operational test launch - . Nation: USA. Agency: USAF SAC. Apogee: 1,300 km (800 mi).