4. A breakdown in the guidance system
computer of a Minuteman III incorrectly indicated that the missile was
in the process of launching itself. The idea was that if the doors had
opened, the car would have fallen on top of the missile. In June 1988 at
the same base, an MX missile sitting in its silo slipped 7 inches. After
the fall, which was due to a bad lot of epoxy glue, the MX responded just
as the Minuteman had, and sent out signals that it was preparing to launch
itself. Repair cost about $5,000,000.
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