👉 Alfred missiles were a series of early intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems developed by the United States in the 1950s, named after the fictional British Prime Minister Sir Alfred Milner. These missiles were designed to deliver nuclear warheads over long distances, with a range of up to 6,000 kilometers (3,700 miles), making them a significant threat during the Cold War. The Alfred missiles were notable for their simplicity and reliability, utilizing a single-stage liquid-fueled rocket with a solid-fueled upper stage for the final boost to orbit. They were primarily deployed by the U.S. Air Force and played a crucial role in the strategic deterrence of the Soviet Union, contributing to the doctrine of mutually assured destruction (MAD). Despite their relatively short operational lifespan, Alfred missiles were a key component of early U.S. nuclear strategy and influenced the development of subsequent ICBM systems.
