LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM to modernize U.S. nuclear deterrent

The United States is modernizing the land-based component of its nuclear triad with the development of the LGM-35A Sentinel. Developed by Northrop Grumman for the U.S. Air Force, this three-stage, solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is designed to replace the LGM-30 Minuteman III, which has been in service for over 50 years.

The Sentinel program extends beyond the missile itself, encompassing a massive infrastructure overhaul. This includes new launch silos, communication networks, launch centers, support vehicles, and command-and-control systems spread across thousands of square miles. The Air Force plans to deploy the missiles at F. E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana, and Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota.

According to Air Force specifications, the Sentinel is designed for a range exceeding 6,000 miles (9,600 km) and can reach speeds of approximately 15,000 mph (Mach 23) at burnout. The broader modernization effort aims for an inventory of more than 450 missiles and 450 hardened silos, with 400 missiles projected to be operational.