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Warren conducts Simulated Electronic Launch-Minuteman test

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Mike Tryon
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs
F, E, WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  Airmen from the 90th Missile Wing conducted a Simulated Electronic Launch-Minuteman, also known as a SELM, Aug. 16 through 18.

Air Force Global Strike Command conducts SELM tests twice yearly. The tests are part the command's on-going program to evaluate the operational readiness of Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles.

This SELM, named Giant Pace 11-1M, confirmed that a test configured missile launch facility will respond to launch and other critical commands from a launch control center, as well as the airborne launch control center. This test reinforces AFGSC's commitment to a safe, secure and effective strategic deterrence.

In addition to testing the response of a LCC, during this SELM, a launcher-closure door will be activated -- an event that occurs only during one test every other year.

"SELMs provide the most complete test of ICBMs from day-to-day operation to issuance of first stage ignition signal," said Lt. Col. Anita Feugate Opperman, 320th Missile Squadron commander and SELM test support manager.

Success of a SELM is due to the involvement of many on- and off-base agencies.

"This is truly a joint effort," Feugate Opperman said. "The 576th Flight Test Squadron, Vandenberg AFB, Calif., is involved from the initial planning stages to the completion of the final report. On-base agencies and personnel which provide support include the safety office, command post, bioenvironmental, civil engineers, logistics readiness and maintainers."

This differs from test launches at Vandenberg in that a SELM tests ICBMs in their deployed locations at operational bases without actually launching a missile. An Operational Test Launch is an actual test launch of a missile, but uses test launch facilities and LCCs at Vandenberg.

Both OTLs and SELMs are overseen by the 576th FLTS and are components of the ICBM Force Development Evaluation program. The FDE program is used to verify the operational effectiveness and reliability of the weapon system.

"It has been great working with Lt. Col. Feugate Opperman and her team of SELM points-of-contact in the different groups as well as with all the members of the 90th who have helped to prepare for this test," said Capt. Alana Arnot, 576th FLTS.

The next SELM for Warren is scheduled to take place next year, and is slated to be conducted by the 321st Missile Squadron.