The Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) has formed a Sentinel Working Group under Task Force 21 (TF21). The Sentinel Working Group consists of four TF21 members that include Mark Jantzer, Jason Zimmerman, Brekka Kramer, and Cassidy Hjelmstad as the group’s chair. This working group will be crucial as TF21 prepares the state and our community for this major project.
“Sentinel is one of the largest modernization projects that has ever been undertaken by the Department of Defense, and we know a focused effort is needed to support this project. What’s unique about Sentinel is the scale and scope of construction off-base,” said Pete Hankla, TF21 Chair. “The working group is the go-to for information regarding Sentinel updates and details for the local community and state leaders.”
Sentinel is the weapon system proposed to replace the aging Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system. It represents the modernization of the land-based leg of the U.S. nuclear triad and would extend its capabilities. On-base construction will focus on construction or modifying facilities and infrastructure as necessary to support Sentinel maintenance, training, storage, testing, and support at Minot Air Force Base. Off-base construction includes the missile alert facilities, renovation of all 150 existing launch facilities in the missile fields in North Dakota, launch centers, utility corridors, communications towers, and more.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this group as the United States ushers in a new era of nuclear deterrence,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, TF21 Sentinel Working Group Chair. “It’s crucial that as technology advances, we stay ahead of the curve to ensure the strength and reliability of our nation’s nuclear deterrence. At Task Force 21, we remain committed to educating the public and advocating for the resources necessary to support this mission. Keeping our community informed and engaged is essential as we move forward with this next-generation deterrence system.”
TF21 is looking toward the future as the military continues to modernize its nuclear enterprise. TF21 will continue to educate the local community, state officials, members of Congress and the public on national security issues, particularly ones that affect Minot Air Force Base, Air Force Global Strike Command, and the U.S. Air Force.
For more information, visit TaskForce21.com, afgsc.af.mil or contact the Minot Area Chamber EDC at (701) 852-6000.