Irbm Collection

U. S. Air Force photograph of the launch site of intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) at Guanajay, Cuba
CUBAN MISSILE CRISIS, 1962. U.S. Air Force photograph of the launch site of intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) at Guanajay, Cuba, 17 October 1962

A Thor IRBM is launched from Air Force Missile Test Centre
A Thor IRBM is launched from the Air Force Missile Test Center, Patrick AFB, Florida, USA

Chrysler PGM-11 Redstone
United States Army - Chrysler PGM-11 Redstone IRBM at an air-show in the United States. Date: circa 1961

Mechanics at the Canoga Park, California, plant of Rock?
Mechanics at the Canoga Park, California, plant of Rocketdyne make final adjustments to an engine for the first stage of a Jupiter intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM)

Chrysler Jupiter intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM) launched on a test flight from Cape Canaveral on 27 February 1959. Date: 1959

The Thor IRBM production line at the Santa Monica Division of the Douglas Aircraft Company

Thor IRBM of the RAF

The third Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg. 3 August 1959. Date: 1959

The first Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg. 16 April 1959. Date: 1959

Liquid oxygen vapour escapes during pre-launch checkout of the first Thor IRBM launched in a training exercise by a three-man RAF launch crew at Vandenberg

A Thor IRBM of the RAF during pre-launch checkouts by a crew trained at Vandenberg

Thor IRBM ready for launch

The shed containing a Thor IRBM rolls back on rails

Thor IRBM inside its shed

Dark blue painted shed containing a Thor IRBM

Destroying a ballistic missile C016 / 7646
Arms reduction. Explosion as the body of a RSD-10 Pioneer ballistic missile is destroyed as part of an arms reduction agreement. The explosion is from the solid fuel used in its rocket motor

Destroying a ballistic missile C016 / 7647
Arms reduction. Explosion as the body of a RSD-10 Pioneer ballistic missile is destroyed as part of an arms reduction agreement. The explosion is from the solid fuel used in its rocket motor

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In the midst of the Cold War, the world held its breath as tensions escalated between superpowers. The year was 1962, and a U. S. Air Force photograph captured an eerie sight at Guanajay, Cuba - the launch site of intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs). These powerful weapons stood as a stark reminder of the potential devastation that could be unleashed. Meanwhile, at the Air Force Missile Test Centre, a Thor IRBM soared into the sky with thunderous force. Developed by Chrysler's PGM-11 Redstone team in Canoga Park, California, this technological marvel showcased human ingenuity and engineering prowess. The production line for Thor IRBMs hummed with activity as mechanics meticulously assembled these formidable machines. Each component carefully crafted to ensure flawless execution when it mattered most. Not limited to American soil alone, even across the Atlantic Ocean in England, RAF personnel prepared their own Thor IRBMs for action. Training exercises became routine as they honed their skills in launching these potent missiles. During pre-launch checkouts, liquid oxygen vapor would escape into thin air like ghostly tendrils reaching towards infinity. It served as a visual reminder of both danger and possibility - encapsulating humanity's ability to harness immense power while simultaneously facing its inherent risks. With every launch came anticipation and trepidation alike. The first Thor IRBM launched during training exercises marked a significant milestone - proof that dreams could become reality through unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of progress. As time went on, more Thors took flight from Air Force Missile Test Centres or RAF bases around the globe. Each launch represented not only military might but also scientific achievement pushing boundaries beyond imagination. The third Thor IRBM launched during yet another training exercise demonstrated how far we had come since those early days at Guanajay in Cuba back in 1962. It symbolized our collective growth and resilience amidst uncertain times - a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity.