The US Air Force tested its unarmed nuclear-capable long-range missile.

The Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launched from Vandenberg Air Base in California all the way to the Marshall Islands, some 5,500 kilometres away.

The Air Force Global Strike Command says the missile launch was to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent.

“This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable and effective to deter twenty-first century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred more than 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events,” the statement says.

The launch was originally scheduled for August 4 but was delayed because of Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan and how China might view it.

“Make no mistake – our nuclear triad is the cornerstone of the national security of our country and of our allies around the globe,” Col. Chris Cruise, 576th Flight Test Squadron Commander, said in a statement.

“This scheduled test launch is demonstrative of how our nation’s ICBM fleet illustrates our readiness and reliability of the weapon system.

Col. Chris Cruise

“It is also a great platform to show the skill sets and expertise of our strategic weapons maintenance personnel and of our missile crews who maintain an unwavering vigilance to defend the homeland.”

The US often tests its weapon systems to verify its accuracy and reliability.