👉 The Delaware missiles, also known as the Minuteman III, are a family of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) developed and deployed by the United States. These missiles were designed for strategic deterrence during the Cold War, with a focus on delivering nuclear warheads to targets across North America and Europe. Each missile consists of a long, cylindrical warhead housed in a robust, heat-resistant casing encased in a robust metal tube, protected by a layer of radar-absorbent material to evade enemy detection. The missiles feature a sophisticated guidance system, combining a primary inertial navigation system with a secondary radar-guided system, ensuring accurate targeting over vast distances. They are typically launched from mobile silos or fixed sites and have a range of up to 7,500 miles (12,000 km), making them a formidable component of the U.S. nuclear triad. The Delaware missiles were deployed in various configurations, including mobile and stationary silos, and played a crucial role in maintaining strategic stability during the Cold War era.