Operation DOMINIC Nuclear Tests 1962, Section 3

Developed for the United States Air Force by Lockheed, C-130 Hercules aircraft first entered service in 1955 as the fastest American military propeller-driven cargo planes of that time, exceeding 370 mph (595 kph).

This platform carried fireball and device performance diagnostic equipment:

The C-130 had a unique ability of its time, able to taxi in reverse under its own power. Reversible thrust propellers made this possible. This same feature shortened landing distances for more versatility with ground unloading and reloading support around the world.

A Douglas C-54 Skymaster

A Martin RB-57D Canberra cloud sampler of the 4028th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron (SRS), based at Kirtland AFB. The 4028th SRS was under the command of their SAC wing, which is famous for the first to fly U-2 missions over hostile territories.

An XM-33 Strypi Antares was in its final preparations as diagnostic support for STARFISH PRIME.

The STARFISH 1.45 megaton yield W49 warhead detonated at 250 mi/400 km altitude, 9 July, 1962.

CHECKMATE also used 3 Strypi missiles, 2 as diagnostic missiles, and one as the warhead launcher, using 2 Recruit boosters attached at its base.