046 CHROME DOME 1960-68: The B-52s' High-Stakes Cold War Nuclear Operation

1-968046

Explores how during the Cold War, Operation Chrome Dome required 12 B-52 Stratofortresses to maintain a ceaseless airborne alert within striking distance of Soviet targets, orbiting over the Mediterranean and north of Alaska. Each bomber stayed aloft for 24 hours, flying for around 10,000 miles until relieved by another. In each cockpit a top-secret Combat Mission Folder contained details of the routes and procedures for a nuclear attack on a pre-determined Soviet target. Draws on first-hand information from the personnel who flew and supported these efforts. Illustrated throughout with 65 photos and 16 pages of original color illustrations.