this aspect in another way -- future “testing when ready” would provide
a flexible method of operation, independent of time, scope, or place,
in which the AEC or DOD would test separately or jointly as the requirement would dictate.
(2)
The second aspect or characteristic of this concept would
te the establishment of a test site and a test support organization
that would be available for use on a continuous and immediate basis.
This means tnoat the test organization must be capable of enough flexibility
to receive and support test projects at the ready site, in addition to
other test locations, such as open seas or shipboard.
This aspect also
dictates that a site be chosen as a year around, continuously available
site, sc that the timing of any operation from this site is restricted
only by the lead times of the technical programs themselves and the
required logistics build-up.
In discussing this concept of "testing when ready” as opposed to
the old traditional "series operation” yearly tests, the committee
suggests the latter method of operation has become obsolete and un-
economical if surface or "atmosphere”™ shots are outlawed.
Since weather
conditions will not limit high sltitude testing to a specific time of
year, tne method of "all going" on one big operation at a given time
whether ready or not is hardly justified or necessary.
ec.
Site Location.
The TEAK and ORANGE shots of the HARDTACK operation
proved not only that high altitude nuclear testing is feasible but
additionally that Johnston Island is a satisfactory location from which
to operate.
For the next several years the U. 3. Army is planning to use
this island as a launching site for targets to be used in developing