In 1972-74 when I was a Minuteman I launch officer (DMCCC) our 10 missiles were /always/ on alert. You would expect to see 10 green "Strategic Alert" lights across the crew commander's (MCCC's) console unless something was wrong (requiring maintenance or a brief calibration).
IIRC we were in a perpetual state of DEFCON 4 in those days.
As a Minuteman launch officer, I'd be curious what are your thoughts on the incursion accounts of launch officers Robert Salas & David Schindele? (I understand there were comparable reports going into the 1970s as well but I'm not as familiar with those)
Salas @ Malmstrom https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ex-air-force-personnel-ufos-dea...
Schindele @ Minot: https://www.minotdailynews.com/news/local-news/2023/06/forme...
Ground-based launchers are not survivable and must be ready to fire promptly after attack warning.
I wonder how often the missile is in alert status? Presumably regular testing?
For those just skimming the guidance system info (for Minuteman III) starts on page 49. Looks like they miniaturized it some and that giant moon lander backplane seems to be substantially reduced?
Amazing pics, thanks for sharing!