Driver Error in ICBM Mishap

Driver error caused a payload transporter vehicle carrying non-nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile components to overturn in a rural area near Minot AFB, ND on August 31, 2009, according to a USAF accident investigation board. The driver became distracted and failed to maintain control of the vehicle’s route of travel when a large insect flew into the driver’s open window and landed on the driver’s back.  The vehicle drifted to the right side of the gravel road while the driver was trying to remove the insect, and the vehicle’s tires went off the right edge of the road.  It tipped onto its right side and came to rest in the ditch next to a field. There were no injuries and the accident posed no danger to the public.