Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 56:27-59:29

Why the F6D Missileer arrived too early

The F6D Missileer's fleet-defense concept demanded technology and doctrine that were not ready, while ship-launched missiles already offered another answer to distant bomber threats.

F6D MissileerFleet Air DefenceNaval AviationRIM-2 TerrierRIM-8 TalosSurface-to-Air MissilesUS Navy
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Question

Did the US Navy push the F6D Missileer concept beyond what contemporary technology could support?

Short answer

Yes. The idea was plausible, but the available technology, execution, and doctrine could not make it work effectively.

Notes

The Missileer's long-range fleet-defense concept is judged sound, but its execution and supporting technology were inadequate. Doctrine also mattered because a new weapon needed an effective way to operate within the fleet. The US Navy already had ship-launched missiles, including nuclear-armed versions, intended to counter bombers threatening its carriers. Talos and Terrier are among the systems considered. Their below-deck assembly arrangements illustrate the large and complicated machinery behind that alternative approach to fleet air defense.