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The Arrival of the First Thor Ballistic Missile to RAF Bom
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The Arrival of the First Thor Ballistic Missile to RAF Bom
Photograph of the delivery of first Thor Ballistic Missile to an RAF Base in Norfolk, 19th September 1958. Sixty-five feet long, it was carried to the site from a nearby American base on a 90 foot long transporter. The Thors nuclear war-head was retained by the Americans and any British decision to launch this missile would have been subject to American approval. RAF Regiment guards can be seen in the foreground, ready to deter any naughty ideas
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Media ID 4365410
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10216667
1958 Approval Arrival Ballistic Carried Decision Deter Feet Foot Foreground Guards Ideas Missile Naughty Nearby Norfolk Nuclear Ready Regiment Retained Sixty Subject Transporter Base Delivery
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a pivotal moment in history - the arrival of the first Thor Ballistic Missile to an RAF base in Norfolk on 19th September 1958. The sheer size and power of this missile is evident as it is carried on a 90-foot long transporter, with American personnel overseeing its delivery.
The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as the Thors nuclear warhead was retained by the Americans, giving them ultimate control over any potential launch from British soil. This arrangement meant that any decision to use this powerful weapon would have been subject to American approval, highlighting the close relationship between the two nations during this tense period of Cold War politics.
In the foreground of the image, RAF Regiment guards stand ready, poised to deter any unauthorized access or interference with this highly sensitive equipment. Their presence serves as a reminder of the serious implications associated with such advanced military technology.
This photograph not only documents a key moment in military history but also serves as a stark reminder of the complex dynamics at play during this era. It is a testament to both technological progress and political tensions that defined much of the mid-20th century.
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