WASHINGTON — The U.S. Air Force announced on February 17 that the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile program restructure remains on track for completion by the end of the year, with Milestone B certification targeted for the same period and initial operational capability planned for the early 2030s.
The announcement from Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs directly supports the 2026 National Defense Strategy’s emphasis on accelerating modernization of the land-based leg of the nuclear triad. Officials described the restructured acquisition strategy as a deliberate, data-driven effort to deliver credible, long-term deterrence through a consolidated management structure.
The Sentinel program replaces the Minuteman III system, which has been in service since 1970, along with its associated launch facilities, command centers, and supporting infrastructure. Recent technical milestones and fielding preparations at multiple bases demonstrate measurable progress following the program’s earlier restructure.
