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Ballistic Missile Test Launched From Central Coast

(Department of Defense photo)
Vandenberg Air Force Base had an unannounced missile test launch Thursday morning

The Central Coast was the scene of a mysterious missile test launch. What's being called a prototype ground launched ballistic missile was launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base Thursday morning. The unarmed missile flew more than 500 kilometers before crashing into the ocean.

Department of Defense officials say the 8:30 a.m. test launch will help provide data for development of intermediate range missiles.

Lance Orozco has been News Director of KCLU since 2001, providing award-winning coverage of some of the biggest news events in the region, including the Thomas and Woolsey brush fires, the deadly Montecito debris flow, the Borderline Bar and Grill attack, and Ronald Reagan's funeral.