ABSTRACT
The Soviet programme for the development of medium and long-range ballistic missiles that was built up during the 1950s was clearly accompanied by the imperative to carry out basic research into possible countermeasures. During the 1950s the United States (US) Army adopted the mantle of responsibility for providing air defence from the ground for the United States, with work proceeding on several projects for guided missiles which could counter the threat of bomber aircraft or air-breathing missiles. A note of guarded optimism was sounded in early 1956 following a tripartite conference on defence against ballistic missiles held in London between US, British and Canadian officials. Serving as the United Kingdom (UK) Chairman of the meeting, Sir Frederick Brundrett, the then-Chief Scientist at the MoD, found that long-range ballistic missiles could be detected with present radar technology. And that there were no 'insurmountable difficulties' in the design of a defensive missile system, although further studies would be needed.
