NIKE guided missile firing test sequence showing intercept and destruction of target aircraft

NIKE guided missile firing test sequence showing intercept and destruction of target aircraft
  • 3095—3097
  • Photograph
  • 1953
  • APS-53-356-NPS
    WHITE SANDS PROVING GROUND, N. M.
    FIRING TEST
    (Top Picture)
    The NIKE guided missile (Upper left) nears the target plane. A smoke pot under wing (left) enabled the photographers to follow the action.
    (Bottom Picture)
    The NIKE missile flashes beneath the target's wing.
    1953
    This picture is NOT FOR SALE
    For official Department of Defense use only
    REPRODUCTION BY U. S. ARMY

    APB-53-397-NFS
    FIRING TEST
    (Top Picture)
    The NIKE missile explodes at microsecond of intercept.
    (Bottom Picture)
    Fiery fragments of exploded NIKE missile rip target.
    1953
    This picture is NOT FOR SALE
    For official Department of Defense use only
    REPRODUCTION BY U. S. ARMY

    APS-53-356-NPS
    FIRING TEST
    (Top Picture)
    Wing shattered and afire, target plane starts final plunge.
    (Bottom Picture)
    Motor tears from wing as target plummets to earth.
    1953
    This picture is NOT FOR SALE
    For official Department of Defense use only
    REPRODUCTION BY U. S. ARMY
    7─ abstract
    Three sequential double-image panels documenting a complete NIKE guided missile intercept test at White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico in 1953. The six photographs capture the progression from initial approach through final destruction of an unmanned target aircraft. The first panel shows the NIKE missile approaching the target plane (marked with a smoke pot for tracking). The second panel captures the moment of intercept with the missile exploding at microsecond precision and debris fragments ripping through the target. The third panel shows the target aircraft with shattered wing beginning its descent, followed by the aircraft breaking apart as it falls to earth.
    The NIKE Ajax was the U.S. Army's first operational surface-to-air guided missile system, designed to defend against high-altitude bomber threats during the Cold War. These dramatic test photographs were created for official Department of Defense documentation of the weapon system's capabilities.