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ther classification was inconsistent at times.
In addition, it was felt
that too much accuracy was expected on the part of radar in the location of
the drones and other aircraft in the area.
The importance of monitoring
voice communications was stressed and finally the’ need for considerable
practice with Task Group 7.4 was realized by all.
This was to come later
when all units of Task’ Unit 724.2 had arrived in the area and were ready
to take their place th: the operations.
his role in the forthcoming tests.
better job next time.
ke
After the exercise, officers and
Each one looked forward to doing a
ey
When does it get light at Eniwetok?
ode geben.
SE, Atomic Energy Commission Test Pirector, was interested
in having the first test take place during the hours of darkness.
Heli-
copters were needed to fly into the radioactive area almost immediately
after the detonation to remove certain equipment, and drone aircraft were
needed to make three (5) passes into the atomic.cloud to collect air
semplese
Both of thé above air operations required a certain amount of
light to insure suceessful operation.
This requirement of sufficient ligh
Te
was met by detonation of the weapon immediately before dawn.
The Air Commander had mentioned early in January 1948 at a staff
meeting how much he had been impressed with the rapid change from darkness
to light in this area.
He suggested that the bomb could be fired a few
minutes before dawn in the complete darkness on the island and within ten
to fifteen minutes there would be enough light farthe helicopters to
enter the target area and rind the equipment they were to bring out.
This
firing of the weapét. immediately before dawn would also help the “beeper”
Seetion VIII
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4
a.
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