BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. –An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile test launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, experienced a ground abort prior to launch, Air Force Global Strike Command officials said today.

The cause of the ground abort is currently under investigation, and Air Force Global Strike Command is assessing the potential to reschedule the launch. The Air Force adheres to strict protocols while performing operational test launches, only launching when all safety parameters with the test range and missile are met, according to Global Strike Command information.

The test launch program helps the command evaluate the Minuteman III and gather data to keep the system effective.

Minot Air Force Base, F.E. Warren AFB in Wyoming and Malmstrom AFB in Montana have Minuteman III ICBMs in underground facilities in their missile fields.