91st Missile Wing LGM-30 Minuteman Missile Launch Sites

The 91st Missile Wing operates approximately 150 Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles from hardened underground launch facilities scattered across northwestern North Dakota. Personnel work across multiple combat missile squadrons to maintain operational readiness of these weapons systems.

The installation was established in 1962 as the 455th Strategic Missile Wing and became the fourth Air Force Minuteman ICBM wing deployed in North America. This location evolved into a key component of Cold War nuclear deterrence strategy.

The missile wing personnel maintain constant readiness through specialized training programs while integrating with local North Dakota communities through civic engagement initiatives.

The launch sites are distributed across a vast rural area that requires advance planning to visit. Most facilities are not open to the general public and access is restricted by military security protocols.

Each missile alert facility operates with two officers stationed in a buried launch control center who oversee multiple silos spread across the prairie. This two-person crew structure has remained fundamental to operations for decades.