https://www.airandspaceforces.com/northrop-grumman-cdr-sentinel-launch-support-system/

Oct. 20, 2025 | By John A. Tirpak

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The Sentinel Launch Support System, the digital backbone for testing the new intercontinental ballistic missile over its expected 50-year life, has completed critical design review, Northrop Grumman said Oct. 20.

The completion of the review paves the way for “system build, test, and qualification phases,” and clears the LSS for hardware fabrication and installation at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., the company said. Northrop described the event as “another major milestone for the Sentinel weapon system,” which it said was completed on time, and which takes the program one step closer to “launch readiness.”

The LSS, described as a “digital command and control infrastructure,” is being constructed at Northrop’s Roy, Utah, facilities.

“The successful completion of the CDR means we can now build, test, and qualify the system that will ensure the U.S. Air Force can reliably say, ‘Go for launch,’” said Sarah Willoughby, vice president and general manager of strategic deterrent systems.

The Sentinel is set to be deployed at the same bases that currently host the Minuteman III ICBM: Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont.; Minot Air Force Base, N.D.; and F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo. However, the Air Force uses Vandenberg for regular tests of its ICBM fleet

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A new acquisition plan for Sentinel is expected to be completed by 2026.

"The Sentinel Launch Support System has passed Critical Design Review. The system is an essential element of testing the Sentinel ICBM, both in development and during its 50-year lifetime."

Credit: Northrop Grumman.