posted on Dec, 1 2008 @ 08:59 AM
UFO's?..mmmmmm.
They need to transport the warheads in order for the them to be maintained.
They only have a short operational life on top of each missile (we have around 208) before they need periodic overhauling at Aldermaston/Burghfield.
They therefore have to be transported from RNS Coulport to Aldermeston.
For the unscientific amongst us imagine this......The warheads are cans of pop that have been shaken very vigorously to have an effect when opened!!!.
After a while (if not used) this will stabalise and revert to 'normal'
So in order to guarantee that if needed they will deliver their bang for the buck they go back to Aldermaston to be shaken up again
On a more scientific note many components are very very sensitive and are prone to damage, even air to some of the warheads electronic circuitry would
be corrosive so this is the need for frequent travels up and down the isle for checks/servicing and their guidance systems re calibrating to make sure
its looking for the designated target and not some 'baby milk factory'
The Missile itself is owned by the US, but the warhead on top is the property of HM so we cant send it back to the yanks if its not working properly
its down to the boffins in white paper siuts at Aldermaston
Its simple really
[edit on 1-12-2008 by patton]
[edit on 1-12-2008 by patton]
[edit on 1-12-2008 by patton]