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Longevity of ADM's

By Section Editor: Robert M. Forrest

 

Although the MADM and SADM were not manufactured after the mid-1960's, those original devices were apparently still in Army inventory into the 1980's. This may seem incredible for sophisticated and sometimes delicate nuclear systems, but, in fact, such longevity was common with most Army munitions.

All munitions, including what was euphemistically referred to as "special" munitions [i.e., nuclear & chemical], are inspected by ordnance technicians on a periodic basis specified in various technical manuals. For something simple like a high-explosive (HE) projectile, the inspection may not be very often and will include simple things such as removing rust and repainting, making sure markings are still legible, and checking for and correcting any damage or deterioration that has occurred. For Army artillerymen in Germany in the late 1970's and early 1980's, for example, it would not be surprising to see 8" howitzer propellant that was manufactured in 1945! As long as it was serviceable, it was still used.

With nuclear projectiles and munitions like the ADM's, the inspection would of course be more detailed. Any equipment that contains batteries would have them checked and replaced as needed, and any nuclear components that may have a short half-life might have to be periodically replaced. Additionally, modifications to the original designs may have been developed, and the modifications would be installed or completed by technicians. Other than that, the nuclear munitions would be just like any other piece of equipment - if it's serviceable, it gets used.

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