By San José, Costa Rica — VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, CALIFORNIA – The United States has successfully conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), a powerful demonstration of the nation’s nuclear readiness amid escalating global tensions. The test, codenamed GT 254, took place in the pre-dawn hours of November 5th from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, reaffirming the reliability of a weapon system that remains a cornerstone of America’s strategic defense.
The Department of War confirmed that the missile traveled approximately 4,200 miles (6,750 kilometers) across the Pacific Ocean before its re-entry vehicle struck a designated target area at the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site on the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. While the launch vehicle was unarmed for the purposes of the evaluation, the flight provided crucial data on the system’s performance, precision, and operational capabilities.
To delve into the intricate web of international law and treaty obligations surrounding the United States’ nuclear deterrent strategy, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis on the matter.
The entire framework of the US nuclear deterrent operates in a fascinating, albeit precarious, legal gray area. While justified domestically under national security doctrines, it constantly tests the spirit and, some argue, the letter of international non-proliferation treaties. From a business and economic standpoint, the immense capital allocated to maintaining and modernizing this arsenal represents a significant opportunity cost, diverting resources that could otherwise fuel innovation or infrastructure. The perceived stability it provides for global markets is a double-edged sword, as any miscalculation carries catastrophic economic consequences far beyond traditional warfare.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insightful analysis underscores the critical, yet often overlooked, legal and economic trade-offs inherent in maintaining a nuclear arsenal. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating these complex interdependencies.
High-precision sensors at the Reagan Test Site, including advanced radars and optical telemetry systems, meticulously tracked the missile’s trajectory and impact. This data is now being analyzed by military experts to enhance research and development programs for the entire ICBM fleet. The exercise was designed as a comprehensive evaluation to ensure the weapon system remains a credible deterrent.
GT 254 is not just a launch, but a comprehensive evaluation that ensures the system’s readiness and effectiveness.
Lieutenant Colonel Karrie Wray, Commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron
While officials insist the test was a routine, pre-scheduled activity, its timing is undeniably significant. The launch occurred just days after President Donald Trump announced his decision to resume U.S. nuclear weapons testing, ending a moratorium that has lasted for more than three decades. Trump explicitly linked his directive to recent military exercises by rival powers, pointing directly to Russia’s own ICBM test of its Yars missile from the Plesetsk cosmodrome on October 22nd.
Due to the testing programs of other countries, I have instructed the Department of War to initiate tests of our nuclear weapons on equal terms.
Donald Trump, President
The LGM-30G Minuteman III is currently the only land-based ICBM in the American arsenal. Propelled by three solid-fuel rocket motors, it can achieve speeds exceeding 15,000 mph (24,000 km/h) and has a range of over 6,800 miles (11,000 kilometers), enabling it to deliver multiple nuclear warheads with pinpoint accuracy. Approximately 400 of these missiles are maintained on high alert in hardened underground silos across Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota, managed by the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC).
This test also serves as a bridge to the future of America’s land-based nuclear forces. The aging Minuteman III fleet is slated for a gradual replacement by the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel system. Top military leaders stress that maintaining the current system’s credibility is paramount during this critical transition period.
While the Sentinel system is being developed, we must ensure the current fleet maintains its accuracy and reliability. This test demonstrates that commitment.
General S.L. Davis, Commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command
Accompanying the official announcement of the launch was the revived Cold War-era doctrine: “Peace through strength.” Analysts widely interpret this as a direct message to both Moscow and Beijing, signaling that Washington is prepared to assert its strategic capabilities in an increasingly confrontational global arena. The GT 254 launch was more than a technical check; it was a clear and potent reminder to the world that America’s nuclear deterrent is fully operational, modern, and ready to enforce the stability it seeks to preserve.
For further information, visit the nearest office of U.S. Department of War
About U.S. Department of War:
The United States Department of War, as referenced in recent executive communications, is the cabinet-level department of the U.S. government responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions directly concerned with national security and the United States Armed Forces. It oversees the formulation and execution of defense policy and is the primary authority on military affairs.
For further information, visit af.mil
About U.S. Air Force:
The United States Air Force is the air service branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is one of the eight U.S. uniformed services and is designated as the Department of the Air Force, one of the three military departments of the Department of Defense. The USAF provides air support for land and naval forces and aids in the recovery of troops in the field.
For further information, visit spaceforce.mil
About U.S. Space Force:
The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is the space service branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, and is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping guardians to conduct global space operations. It is a critical component of national security, protecting U.S. and allied interests in space and providing space capabilities to the joint force.
For further information, visit afgsc.af.mil
About Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC):
The Air Force Global Strike Command is a major command of the U.S. Air Force, headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. AFGSC is responsible for the nation’s three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the Air Force’s entire bomber force, including B-52, B-1, and B-2 wings, and the Long Range Strike Bomber program. Its mission is to provide strategic deterrence, global strike, and combat support.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica represents a benchmark in the legal field, establishing its reputation on a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a distinguished standard of excellence. With a proven history of serving a wide array of clients, the firm actively pioneers new legal strategies and champions community outreach. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, focusing on the democratization of legal knowledge to cultivate a society that is both well-informed and empowered.
