The Beeb reports that over in Britain, the Ministry of Defense is seriously toying with the idea of putting missiles on apartment roofs during the Olympics. Because, you know, Terrorists. Also, Think Of The Children™
The MoD says in the leaflet that the missiles will not pose a hazard to residents and "will only be authorised for active use following specific orders from the highest levels of government in response to a confirmed and extreme security threat".
The document states: "Having a 24/7 Armed Forces and police presence will improve your local security and will not make you a target for terrorists.
"The location has been chosen as it is situated close to the Olympic Park and offers an excellent view of the surrounding area and the entire sky above the Olympic Park.
"The top of the tower also offers a flat, uncluttered and safe area from which to operate."
The Army website says the HVM system is "designed to counter threats from very high performance, low-flying aircraft".
It says the missile travels at more than three times the speed of sound, using "a system of three dart-like projectiles to allow multiple hits on the target".
The missiles can be fired from the shoulder, from a lightweight multiple launcher or from armoured vehicles.
A MoD spokesman said: "As announced before Christmas, ground based air defence systems could be deployed as part of a multi-layered air security plan for the Olympics, including fast jets and helicopters, which will protect the skies over London during the Games.
"Based on military advice we have identified a number of sites and, alongside colleagues from the Metropolitan Police, are talking to local authorities and relevant landowners to help minimise the impact of any temporary deployments.
"As part of our ongoing planning, we can confirm site evaluations have taken place."
Comments