New Chapter Begins at Malmstrom with Sentinel Activation

Over the last few years, there has been a lot talk about the sentinel missile upgrade project at Malmstrom Air Force Base.

In a recent announcement, Malmstrom Air Force Base will take steps to further this project in Central Montana.

Sentinel Missile Upgrade Malmstrom Air Force Base

On April 4th, 2025, General Thomas A. Bussiere, Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, will lead the official activation ceremony for AFGSC Detachment 11.

This new detachment will be under the command of Lt. Col. John Mayer and will oversee day-to-day operations as the Air Force begins implementing the new LGM-35A Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) system.

Detachment 11 is part of the Air Force’s ICBM Modernization Directorate and functions as a Site Activation Task Force.

The mission of this group is to coordinate both military and civilian sectors and help with the planning, construction, and deployment of the new Sentinel missile system at Malmstrom Air Force Base.

United States Sentinel Missile Program

This project has garnered a lot of attention recently as it will be the most significant and most complex nuclear modernization effort that the United States Air Force has tackled in decades.

The last major overhaul of the nuclear system was back in the 1980s.

As the project moves forward, maintaining the aging Minuteman three system is critical.

According to the Air Force, due to the demands of older technology, it will require additional support, maintenance, and manpower.

One way or another, this activation will be a long-term infrastructure upgrade here in Central Montana and will likely have a huge economic impact on our communities.