"Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a test re-entry vehicle from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, Aug. 16 at 12:49 a.m. Pacific Time to demonstrate the readiness of U.S. nuclear forces and provide confidence in the lethality and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear deterrent," the air force said in a statement.
Earlier this month, the test of the Minuteman III IBM was postponed to avoid escalation of tensions with China.
Back in April, the US postponed the test launch of this missile, citing attempt to avoid escalation of conflict with Russia.