STUDY OF THE FEASIBILITY OF USING RESERVE FORCES IN THE STRATEGIC MISSILE MISSION (NICKNAME: FOUR SQUARE).
Abstract
This study examined the feasibility of substituting Reserve Forces for active forces to accomplish the entire USAF strategic missile mission without alert degradation. On examining the utilization of voluntary and part time Reservists or mobilization augmentees, it was concluded that the Reserve program was incompatible with the alert and reaction time of the missile systems. Maintenance of strategic alert commits the entire missile force to an execution plan and requires practically an instantaneous response, 24 hours a day throughout the year. In addition, there was a lack of Reservist resources for manning the strategic missile units. However, after surveying the Air Reserve Technician program, mission accomplishment was considered to be conceptually feasible for the following reasons: Since it was assumed the Reservists were fully trained in strategic missile systems, they were considered equally effective as active duty personnel. Air Reserve technicians are full- time employees of the Federal government with Reserve appointments. Using Air Reserve Technicians was considered legal under the Articles of the Geneva Convention. Custody of nuclear weapons by Reserve personnel was considered legal since the Reserves are a Federal component of the Department of Defense. A method of administering the Human Reliability Program to Air Reserve Technicians could be provided. There is no appreciable cost difference between the active military personnel and a force composed predominantly of Air Reserve Technicians. Initial and recurring training costs were not considered. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0823921