The Minot Area Chamber EDC has formed a Sentinel Working Group under Task Force 21, according to chamber information.

“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, Task Force 21 Chair. “The working group is the go-to for information regarding Sentinel updates and details for the local community and state leaders.”

The Sentinel Working Group consists of four Task Force 21 members – Mark Jantzer, Jason Zimmerman, Brekka Kramer and Cassidy Hjelmstad as the group’s chair.

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 and communications towers.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this group as the United States ushers in a new era of nuclear deterrence,” Hjelmstad said. “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.”