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“Secure from Missile Defense Quarters, Restow All Gear…”

OK, so trying to get back to some semblance of normalcy around these parts now that the rogue satellite has been dispatched.  We’re hoping the powers-that-be relent in their parsimonious attitude towards releasing video of the event, but given some of the organizations involved, doubt that will happen anytime soon.  Likewise being able to tell…

Perspectives on Aegis BMD and Shooting Down a Failed Satellite

UPDATE: 20 Feb (21 Feb UTC) MARK INDIA – all indications intercept successful.  More to follow… In the 24 hours since the press conference announcing the decision to use a special modification of the Aegis BMD/SM-3 system to mitigate risk from the failed NRO satellite, reaction across the ‘verse (net) has been, well, predictable: “It’s…

Ice 1, Scribe 0

Seems the ice in the polling place parking lot was the real winner Tuesday night. Butcher’s bill – one busted hand & wrist (possible depot level repair – awaiting NARF Team), severely bruised elbow and shoulder.  Rotater cuff also pending NARF eval.  Oh yes, that was the writing hand too…posting may be a little light…

Old Days

  Old days Good times I remember Fun days Filled with simple pleasures Drive-in movies Comic books and blue jeans Howdy doody Baseball cards and birthdays Take me back To a world gone away Memories Seem like yesterday  (Chicago) (Nimitz intercept pics)

This Is Why It’s Called Rocket Science…

Got Pyrolytic graphite for your jet vanes? No?  Umm, too bad… (fast forward to 2:33, 3:01 and 3:10): ——- ——- (Detailed analysis over at ArmsControlWonk)  Incidentally, pyrolytic graphite is a Category II controlled item under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) which, unfortunately, does not include two of the greatest missile technology proliferators of record,…

NFO’s: 43 yrs and still going strong…

The Background: On 8 February 1965, a change to Bureau of Personnel Instruction 1210.4C authorized a new designator and name, Naval Flight Officer (NFO). The new designator was appropriate for “an unrestricted line officer, a member of the aeronautical organization . . .who may fill any billet not requiring actual control knowledge of an aircraft.”…