Sentinel Program Next-Gen Nuclear Missile Silo

Artist’s concept of the Sentinel silo prototype.    ©   US Air Force

The LGM-35A Sentinel nuclear missile program is moving quickly from design to real-world construction.

A major step forward just happened with the start of building a full-scale launch silo prototype in Promontory, Utah.

This is an important part of upgrading the land-based portion of the U.S. nuclear triad.

Working with Northrop Grumman, the program is testing a new way to build silos that is faster, more cost-efficient, and easier to repeat at scale. Instead of upgrading old Minuteman III silos, entirely new ones will be built, allowing modernization without disrupting current readiness.

Artist’s concept of the Sentinel silo prototype.    ©   US Air Force

Progress is happening across the program. A new command center is already under construction at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, and all major missile components have been tested, including all three rocket stages and the post-boost system. These tests help reduce risk ahead of a planned flight test in 2027.

The goal is to deliver a reliable system for the personnel who will operate it, with coordination between Air Force Global Strike Command and U.S. Strategic Command. The Sentinel system is expected to become operational in the early 2030s.

“The new silo design delivers operationally relevant capability on a predictable cost and schedule,” said Gen. Dale White, director, Critical Major Weapon Systems for the Department of War. “We are accelerating delivery while ensuring the system is sustainable and ready for Airmen to operate for decades.”

Artist’s concept of the Sentinel silo prototype.    ©   US Air Force

Why it matters:
It ensures the U.S. maintains a modern, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent, replacing aging Cold War-era systems while keeping continuous readiness during the transition.

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