Twin Minuteman missiles streak from their silos at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California to place their non-nuclear test warheads in the Pacific Ocean target areas thousands of miles away. The U.S. Air Force conducts periodic operational test and evaluation launches using Strategic Air Command personnel and equipment. Stage I and III motors by Thiokol Propulsion have helped make the Minuteman the backbone of our nation's strategic deterrence since 1962.

Artist's Note: The caption reflects the 1989 time frame. Missiliers of the USAF's Air Combat Command continue to stand ready with America's primary land-based nuclear deterrent, the Minuteman III.