510th Missile Squadron, Military missile squadron in Whiteman AFB, Missouri, United States
The 510th Missile Squadron was an Air Force unit responsible for managing and operating Minuteman II intercontinental ballistic missiles from underground launch facilities scattered across Missouri. Multiple launch control centers coordinated these distributed weapons across the state.
The unit began as a bombing squadron during World War II and was converted in 1963 to manage Minuteman missiles in Missouri. It was deactivated in 1993 after the Cold War ended.
Personnel of the 510th underwent specialized training in missile operations, maintaining constant readiness through regular drills and precise technical procedures.
The squadron was based at Whiteman Air Force Base, which spans a large area in central Missouri. Today the base operates a museum where visitors can learn about its history and former operational role.
The squadron maintained the Emergency Rocket Communication System, a backup system that allowed military leaders to transmit attack orders if primary command systems failed. This safety mechanism was critical during nuclear deterrence operations.
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