They came up with an entire new design based on clustering engines from the second stage of the Minuteman missile.

The present force of Minuteman missiles was deployed more than 15 years ago and needs upgrading.

Aries, a modified Minuteman missile, used to test missile defense systems.

About the same time, work began on installations for the second-generation Minuteman missile.

"The president has launched three Minuteman missiles. "

For crews of two officers who have been shifted from the older Minuteman missiles, not much is new.

The first Minuteman missile arrived on 6 September 1963, and was replaced three days later.

The fledgling American semiconductor industry got its start developing chips for the Minuteman missile in the 1960's and only later began selling to computer companies.

"Could use a Peacemaker or a Minuteman missile here," he said.

It could also carry specialized cargoes, such as the Minuteman missile.