An unarmed intercontinental Minuteman III ballistic missile equipped with a test reentry vehicle was launched from Vandenberg AFB at 12:33 a.m. PST Wednesday morning, according to Air Force Global Strike Command.

The missile and its reentry vehicle traveled 4,200 miles from the California coast to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands as part of a developmental test.

“The ICBM's reentry vehicle traveled approximately 4,200 miles to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. These test launches verify the accuracy and reliability of the ICBM weapon system, providing valuable data to ensure a continued safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent. Test launches are not a response or reaction to world events or regional tensions,” according to a statement from U.S. Strategic Command.

“Developmental testing provides valuable data to Air Force Global Strike Command and Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center for both modernization and sustainment of the ICBM weapon system,” said Col. Omar Colbert, 576th Flight Test Squadron Commander. “The Minuteman III is aging, and modernization programs such as this are essential in ensuring that our Nation has a reliable nuclear deterrent through the rest of its lifespan and beyond. Most importantly, this visible indicator of our National security capabilities serves to assure our partners and dissuade potential aggressors.”