ICBM tests are launched from Vandenberg AFB, California to Kwajalein Atoll, a distance of around 4500 or so (I am tired and do not recall the exact distance). The Reentry Vehicles, RVs, for the Minuteman ICBM impact at around 6000 mph so I wonder why they call this a hypersonic weapon when it reenters at a lesser speed. Maybe an Army thing.
The speed of the Minuteman is much greater at stage 3 separation and Propulsion System Rocket Engine, PSRE, start. If I remember correctly the RVs are traveling around 12,000 mph but the system is well over 250,000 feet above earth when they separate from the PSRE.. The entire flight is about 20 minutes or less from “Missile Away” to RV impact and the total powered flight is less than four minutes, the rest are the RVs in a ballistic trajectory. It seems this Army missile is traveling much slower and at a lower altitude.
Thank You again Sir for Your Service and Tech Info. Get some rest. Take care.
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