NIKE HERCULES MIM-14A     MISSILE INTERCEPTOR MISSILE (USA)

Successor to the NIKE AJAX, the much-improved NIKE HERCULES first became operational in the U.S. in 1958. Its HIPAR (High Power Acquisition Radar) tracking system enabled it to intercept and destroy targets at ranges up to 140 km. Targets successfully engaged included high performance aircraft drones, short range ballistic missiles, and even other NIKE HERCULES missiles. Foreign users include Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Italy, and the Republic of Korea. Japan produces their own (non-nuclear) version under a licensing agreement with the American manufacturer.