Daily Current Affairs : 7-June-2024

The latest check of the unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) performed by the United States is a reminder of the country’s ongoing dedication to maintaining its nuclear deterrence capabilities. This test, launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, showcases the enduring role of the Minuteman III in the U.S. defense strategy.

What is the Minuteman III ICBM?

The LGM-30G Minuteman III is a solid-fueled ICBM that has been in service with the U.S. Air Force since the 1960s. It is a crucial component of the U.S. nuclear triad, which includes land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and strategic bombers. The Minuteman III was initially designed with a service life of just ten years. However, it has been continually modernized to ensure its reliability and effectiveness in the face of changing global threats.

Key capabilities of the Minuteman III include:

  • Solid-fuel propulsion for faster launch times and greater reliability.
  • Multiple warhead capability, allowing it to carry multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs).
  • Long-range capabilities, enabling it to strike targets across continents.

What are ICBMs?

Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) are long-range missiles designed to deliver nuclear warheads across continents. These missiles are capable of reaching distant targets in a matter of minutes, making them a cornerstone of any nation’s nuclear deterrence strategy.

Key characteristics of ICBMs:

  • Long-range capabilities, often over 5,000 kilometers.
  • Speed and precision in reaching their targets.
  • Multiple warheads to enhance their destructive potential.

Global Examples of ICBMs

While the Minuteman III is a key asset for the United States, other countries also have their own versions of ICBMs. For example:

  • India’s Agni series, including the Agni-V, is capable of hitting targets more than 5,000 kilometers away.
  • China and Russia have also developed advanced ICBMs, strengthening their nuclear arsenals.

Important Points:

Minuteman III ICBM Test:

  • The U.S. conducted a test of the unarmed Minuteman III ICBM from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
  • The test highlights the U.S.’s ongoing commitment to maintaining its nuclear deterrence capabilities.

Minuteman III Overview:

  • The LGM-30G Minuteman III is a solid-fueled ICBM in service since the 1960s.
  • It is part of the U.S. nuclear triad (land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and strategic bombers).
  • Initially designed for a 10-year service life, it has been continuously modernized to ensure reliability and effectiveness.

Key Features of the Minuteman III:

  • Solid-fuel propulsion for faster launches and greater reliability.
  • Multiple warhead capability (MIRVs) to target multiple locations independently.
  • Long-range capabilities, enabling strikes across continents.

What are ICBMs?:

  • ICBMs (Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles) are long-range missiles designed to carry nuclear warheads across continents.
  • ICBMs are essential for a nation’s nuclear deterrence strategy because of their ability to strike distant targets quickly.

Key Characteristics of ICBMs:

  • Long-range (often over 5,000 km).
  • Speed and precision in reaching targets.
  • Ability to carry multiple warheads to increase destructive capability.

Global Examples of ICBMs:

  • India’s Agni series, such as Agni-V, can hit targets over 5,000 km away.
  • China and Russia have developed advanced ICBMs to strengthen their nuclear capabilities.

Why In News

The U.S. recently conducted an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, demonstrating the continued reliability and effectiveness of this key component of the nation’s nuclear deterrence strategy. This test serves as a reminder of the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining its missile defense capabilities in the face of evolving global security threats.

MCQs about The U.S. Minuteman III ICBM Test

  1. What is the primary purpose of the Minuteman III ICBM in the U.S. defense strategy?
    A. To provide humanitarian aid during conflicts
    B. To act as the U.S.’s primary defense against space threats
    C. To serve as a key component of the U.S. nuclear deterrence strategy
    D. To support conventional warfare operations
    Correct Answer: C. To serve as a key component of the U.S. nuclear deterrence strategy
    Explanation: The Minuteman III is a vital element of the U.S. nuclear triad, ensuring that the U.S. has a reliable nuclear deterrent against global threats.
  2. When was the Minuteman III ICBM first deployed by the U.S. Air Force?
    A. 1970s
    B. 1960s
    C. 1950s
    D. 1980s
    Correct Answer: B. 1960s
    Explanation: The Minuteman III ICBM was first deployed by the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s and has since been modernized to remain effective.
  3. Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Minuteman III ICBM?
    A. Solid-fuel propulsion
    B. Long-range strike capabilities
    C. Ability to carry multiple warheads (MIRVs)
    D. Ability to carry conventional weapons only
    Correct Answer: D. Ability to carry conventional weapons only
    Explanation: The Minuteman III is designed to carry nuclear warheads. It features solid-fuel propulsion, long-range capabilities, and MIRV technology, but not conventional weapons.
  4. Which country’s ICBMs include the Agni-V, capable of striking targets more than 5,000 kilometers away?
    A. China
    B. India
    C. Russia
    D. North Korea
    Correct Answer: B. India
    Explanation: India’s Agni series, including the **Agni-V**, can strike targets more than 5,000 kilometers away, contributing to India’s nuclear deterrence capability.

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