In the annals of military history, certain weapons systems stand out not only for their technical prowess but also for their strategic significance. Among these, the PGM-19 Jupiter missile holds a unique place. Born out of the exigencies of the Cold War era, the Jupiter missile was a pivotal component of the United States’ nuclear
Read on »Posts By: Jeff Woodward
Exploring the Soviet SS-20 Missile System: An Analysis
In the heat of the Cold War, the Soviet Union developed a formidable arsenal of nuclear weapons, including the SS-20 missile system. This blog post delves into the technical intricacies and historical significance of the SS-20, shedding light on its capabilities, impact, and legacy. To understand the significance of the SS-20 missile system, it’s crucial
Read on »The Red Army Faction: A Legacy of Radicalism and Revolution
In the tumultuous era of the 1970s, amid the echoes of anti-establishment sentiment and revolutionary fervor, one group emerged as a symbol of militant resistance in West Germany—the Red Army Faction (RAF). Born from the ashes of discontent and fueled by radical ideology, the RAF left an indelible mark on the landscape of political activism,
Read on »Unveiling Operation Cherry Blossoms at Night: A Forgotten Chapter of History
In the annals of history, there are moments that shimmer with bravery, innovation, and sometimes, controversy. Among these, there exists a chapter often overlooked, a tale buried beneath the weight of more prominent events—Operation Cherry Blossoms at Night. This clandestine project, conceived during World War II, reveals a blend of audacity and desperation in the
Read on »Honoring Those Who Served: Understanding the Veteran Pact Act
In a society that owes so much to its veterans, legislation aimed at supporting and safeguarding the rights of those who have served in the military is crucial. One such piece of legislation is the Veteran Pact Act. Enacted to address the needs and concerns of veterans, this act stands as a testament to our
Read on »The M454 Nuclear Projectile: A Compact Artillery Marvel
The M454 nuclear projectile, also known as the Artillery Fired Atomic Projectile (AFAP), holds a unique place in military history. Developed by the United States, this small-yield tactical weapon was designed for use with standard 155-millimeter howitzers. Let’s explore the fascinating details of the M454. Origins and Specifications Legacy and Impact
Read on »The MGM-52 Lance Missile System
The Lance missile stands as a testament to human ingenuity in the realm of military technology. Developed by the United States during the Cold War era, the Lance missile represented a significant advancement in the field of short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs). With its precision guidance, flexibility, and destructive power, the Lance missile emerged as a
Read on »The National Defense Medal Being Retired, According to Defense Department
The National Defense Medal, which had been issued to service members of all branches during designated periods of war, will no longer be issued after December 31st, 2022. The Department of Defense made the decision after the U.S. troop pullout from Afghanistan in 2021, ending America’s longest conflict. The National Defense Medal was automatically awarded
Read on »JANUS: A Wargame Simulation Code and the Effects of Nuclear Artillery Yields
In the decades before the wonderful website Nukemap helped us with determining the effects of nuclear weapons when used against any target on the globe, The United States used a Lawrence-Livermore Laboratory program called JANUS. JANUS1 was an interactive wargame simulation code, in which the military could input various yield options on battlefield nuclear weapons,
Read on »Turkey and the Cyprian Crises of 1974..Official vs. Non-Official Reports concerning Nuclear Weapons
Nuclear weapons history, a la official reports, and the situation that was told to me by older nuke techs who were in Turkey during the Cyprian Crises of 1974 are a little different. When I was a young nuclear weapons specialist, I would hear stories from the older NCOs who had been around for a
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