McDonnell Douglas AIR-2A

The AIR-2A Genie is an air-to-air rocket with a nuclear warhead designed for use against formations of enemy bombers. It has no guidance system and is powered by a solid propellant rocket motor. The AIR-2 (formerly known as the MB-1) was first test launched in 1956 and became operational in January 1957. On July 19, 1957, a Genie was launched at 18,000 feet from an F-89J interceptor and detonated over Yucca Flats, Nevada.

It was the first and only test detonation of a U.S. nuclear-tipped air-to-air rocket. The AIR-2A was carried primarily by F-89J, F-101B, and F-106A interceptor aircraft. Thousands were built for the USAF before production ended in 1962; they remained in service until the mid-1980s. A training version of the Genie with an inert rocket motor and no nuclear warhead, known as the ATR-2, was also in service. The Genie on display was originally received by the Museum as an ATR-2N. It is mounted on an MF-9 trailer for transport. WR-ALC was responsible for management and logistics support for the Genie when it was in operational service. All AIR-2s have been retired.

SPECIFICATIONS           
Serial # : 
Span:
3 feet 4 inches
Armament: 
Nuclear warhead
Length: 
9 feet, 8 inches
Max. Speed: 
2,100 mph
Diameter: 
17.5 inches
Range: 
6.2 miles
Weight: 
822 lbs.
Service Ceiling: 
50,000 feet
Engines: 
Thiokol TU-289 solid propellant rocket motor of 36,000 lbs. thrust

 

 

 

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