Even though the Cuban Missile Crisis was averted, and the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) in both 1972 and 1979 were meant to limit the number of nuclear weapons missiles could carry, nothing stopped either side from engaging in a massive proliferation of warheads. Meanwhile, computers, satellites, and ever higher altitude spy planes used during the burgeoning tech explosion of the ’80s caused both sides to think outside the box to hide their latest and greatest nuclear toys on, of all things, trains.
The Soviets created the RT-23 Molodets “Ghost Train.” Three DM-62 diesel locomotives pulled three launch wagons armed with intercontinental ballistic nuclear missiles (ICBMs). Four other railcars housed command and control, support (loaded with food for 28 days), and a tanker wagon full of fuel and oil. It reportedly traveled 1,000 miles daily and constantly moved to evade detection. Plus, it could easily blend in with commuter or commercial trains as it maneuvered across the country’s train network, making it even harder to locate and destroy.
By the mid-80s, then-President Ronald Reagan was concerned the Soviets would find the fixed nuclear missile silos such tempting targets that in 1986, he approved the creation of 100 Peacekeeper Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Fifty were to slide into existing silos, while the other half would be installed on trains and become the Peacekeeper Rail Garrison.
Denial of responsibility! Samachar Central is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
