LGM-30 Minuteman III

    

              The LGM-30 Minuteman III is a tactical weapon system with a ballistic missile of worldwide range. Missiles are dispersed in hardened silos to protect against attack and connected to an underground launch control center through a system of hardened cables. Initiating crews, consisting of two officers, perform around-the-clock alert in the launch control center. A variety of communication systems provide the National Command Authorities with highly reliable, virtually instantaneous direct contact with each launch crew. Should command capability be lost between the launch control center and remote missile launch facilities, specially-configured E-6B airborne launch control center aircraft automatically assume command and control of the isolated missile or missiles. Fully qualified airborne missile combat crews aboard airborne launch control center aircraft would execute the NCA orders. An extensive life extension programs is under way to keep the missiles safe, secure and reliable well into the 21st century. These major programs include the following, substitution of the aging direction system, remanufacture of the solid-propellant missile motors, substitution of standby control systems, fix of launch facilities, and fixing of updated, survivable communications tools, and new command and control console to improve direct communications.