Washington, Sep 6 (EFE).- The United States is scheduled to test launch an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) from a space base in California in the early hours of Wednesday to demonstrate the “readiness” of the country’s nuclear forces.
A US honour guard at dawn prepares the grounds of the Pentagon Memorial for a wreath laying ceremony to mark the eighth anniversary of September 11, Arlington, Virginia, USA, 11 September 2009. EPA-EFE FILE/MICHAEL REYNOLDS
The launch is scheduled to take place before 5:37 am local time (00:37 GMT) from the North Vandenberg Space Force Base, about 250 kilometers south of Los Angeles, on the Pacific coast.
The US has already alerted the Russian government to its plans in accordance with “existing bilateral obligations,” Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said in a press conference.
“The purpose of the ICBM test launch program is to demonstrate the readiness of US nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent,” Ryder added.
“This test is routine, and was scheduled years in advance.”
The launch coincides with tensions with Moscow due to its war in Ukraine, and the reinforcement of alliances with the governments of Japan and South Korea to confront to North Korea. EFE
aaca/tw
