U.S. Air Force Accelerates LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM Development with Modular Silo Design

The U.S. Air Force is fast-tracking the development of the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM, which will replace the Minuteman III. The program, initiated in the mid-2010s with Northrop Grumman, focuses on a modular silo design that enhances construction speed, operational readiness, and scalability. The prototype launch tube, developed in Utah, aims to support a fleet of 450 new silos, ensuring improved missile performance and maintainability through 2075, while addressing lifecycle cost challenges.

Published Mar 29, 2026

The U.S. Air Force is advancing the LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM program to replace the Minuteman III, focusing on a modular silo design for improved deployment and maintainability. Northrop Grumman, awarded the development contract in 2020, is prototyping a launch tube in Utah to support construction of 450 new silos.

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The Sentinel is expected to match or exceed the Minuteman III's range and enhance payload flexibility and targeting precision. The program is on track for initial deployment in the early 2030s, with full operational capability anticipated later in the decade, as aging Minuteman IIIs are retired.