The 341st Missile Wing recently conducted a simulated launch of a Minuteman III ICBM at Malmstrom AFB, Mont. Conducted twice annually, the Simulated Electronic Launch-Minuteman “is meant to exercise the weapon and its command signals in its operationally deployed location,” said Lt. Col. Suzanne Sauls, 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron commander. Since Minuteman test shots are conducted at Vandenberg AFB, Calif., SELMs are required to effectively measure the responsiveness of the silos, networks, and facilities at operational missile bases. “It’s nice to see it all culminate to that one moment where you can verify that the wing’s mission will succeed,” affirmed Sauls, following the successful evaluation, which took place Oct. 18-20. F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., conducted a SELM in August, making Giant Pace 11-2M the final Minuteman test of this nature this year. (Malmstrom report by Amn. Cortney Paxton)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
