By: TJ Waller
Introduction
The XSM-64 Navaho missile, a surface-to-surface guided missile developed by North American Aviation, holds a significant place in the history of the U.S. missile and space program. Designed as a supersonic intercontinental cruise missile, the Navaho XSM-64 represented cutting-edge technology and was intended to carry a conventional warhead to a range of 6,325 miles. In this article, we will explore the fascinating story of the Navaho missile, its development, launches, and its impact on subsequent missile programs.
Origins and Development
The Navaho missile project was born out of the post-World War II era, where various nations were exploring advanced missile technologies. In 1947, the U.S. Air Force envisioned the Navaho as a pilotless bomber capable of delivering a weapons payload over a distance of 5,500 miles. The initial design, known as the Navaho X-10, resembled a traditional aircraft and was used for test flights. These early versions of the Navaho were remotely controlled and took off from a runway like an airplane.
The Launches at Cape Canaveral
From 1955 to 1959, the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) played a crucial role in the Navaho missile program. A total of 15 Navaho X-10 missiles were launched from the Cape Canaveral Skid Strip during this period. These test flights served various purposes, including aerodynamic flight tests and acting as target drones during Bomarc missile tests. Additionally, seven Navaho XSM-64 missiles were launched from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 9-10 between 1956 and 1958.
The Legacy of the Navaho
Although the Navaho program was eventually canceled in 1957 due to advancements in ballistic missile technology, the missile’s development and technology had a lasting impact on the U.S. space program. Many individuals involved in the Navaho missile program went on to contribute significantly to subsequent space missions, such as the Apollo and Shuttle programs. Furthermore, the engine technology developed for the Navaho was adapted for use in other missile programs, including the Redstone, Atlas, Titan, and Saturn V missions.
Hurricane Matthew and the Restoration Efforts
In October 2016, Hurricane Matthew wreaked havoc on the CCSFS, causing damage to various facilities, including the iconic Navaho XSM-64 missile on display outside the south gate. The missile, which had stood as a symbol of America’s pilotless bombers since 1999, was severely damaged and toppled off its launcher. However, efforts were initiated to restore and preserve this important artifact.
The restoration process was no easy task, as the missile had suffered from years of corrosion due to exposure to the harsh Florida salt air. Integrated Construction Management, Inc. (ICMI), a veteran-owned company based in Cape Canaveral, oversaw the extensive restoration project. The restoration involved repairing and replacing damaged components, including the booster section of the missile.
The Historical Significance
The Navaho missile, despite its relatively short lifespan and lack of operational deployment, holds immense historical significance. Its development paved the way for advancements in missile technology and served as a foundation for subsequent space programs. The Navaho’s booster engine technology, derived from the German V-2 missile, directly influenced the development of missiles like the Atlas, Redstone, Jupiter, and Thor. These missiles, in turn, laid the groundwork for the launch vehicles that propelled humans to the Moon and continue to carry satellites into space.
Preserving the Navaho Legacy
The preservation and restoration of the Navaho XSM-64 missile are crucial for educating visitors about the missile’s history and its impact on the U.S. space and missile programs. The Air Force Space and Missile Museum, located at CCSFS, houses one of the most comprehensive collections of surface-to-surface missiles in the world. The Navaho missile stands as a testament to the ingenuity and technological advancements of its time and is now the only Navaho missile left in existence.
Conclusion The XSM-64 Navaho missile, with its supersonic capabilities and intercontinental range, represented a significant milestone in missile development. Despite its cancellation, the Navaho left a lasting legacy in the U.S. space program, with its technology and expertise contributing to subsequent missions and advancements in rocket engines. The restoration efforts following the damage caused by Hurricane Matthew demonstrate the dedication to preserving this important piece of history. The Navaho XSM-64 missile stands as a symbol of innovation and serves as a reminder of the remarkable achievements in the field of missile technology.
This article has been previously posted by TJ Waller on NewsBreak.
