Technical Summary of Military Effects Programs 1 - 9, Sanitized Version
Abstract
Although more than 70 devices were detonated during the two phases of Operation Hardtack, principal activity by DoD projects was limited to eleven shots. Five of these were DoD shots and six were developmental. Two series of tests were conducted to develop immediate tactical doctrines. Underwater shots were fired in two environments, one in relatively deep water, and one on the bottom of Eniwetok Lagoon at a depth of about 150 feet. Although there had been previous underwater shots, many gaps existed in the knowledge of effects from weapons actually available in stock-pile. General objectives of this series were attained. Another series of four developmental shots was heavily instrumented by DoD projects. Only theory, based on extrapolation from much-higher-yield devices, or from high-explosive tests, existed regarding effects from a 1-to-20 ton nuclear device. Yields from these four shots ranged from no nuclear yield, to about 20 tons. Although all of the specific objectives of this program were not realized, knowledge of effects has been enhanced in the area of sub-kiloton detonations. The very-high-altitude shots were possibly the most important tests during Operation Hard-tack. Three shots were fired at altitudes from 85,000 to 250,000 feet. No previous shots had been made at these altitudes. Principal considerations were partition of energy, and, of immediate tactical and strategic concern, the effects on long-range communications, and on ICBM's in the immediate area. Most objectives were attained, although the need for further investigations in this region exists. Many individual projects participated in the low-yield, underwater, and high-altitude events. In addition, investigations on developmental shots were made in the fields of aircraft response, nuclear-blast detection, world-wide fallout, underground structures, and neutron flux. Operation Hardtack was the most extensive operation ever engaged in by the DoD.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 23, 1959
- Accession Number
- ADA369152