The BOMARC (BO from Boeing and MARC from Michigan Aeronautical Research Center), originally designated as the XF-99, was later redesignated IM-99 then CIM-10A. It was a surface launched pilotless interceptor missile designed to destroy enemy aircraft. Propelled at launch by a rocket booster until it reached sufficient speed for its ramjets to operate, it was guided from the ground to the vicinity of its target at which time it came under control of an internal target seeker. Testing of prototypes began in 1952 and the A series was declared operational in 1960.
The improved B series became operational in 1961 and had a range of 440 miles and a maximum altitude of 100,000 feet. It had more powerful ramjet engines and its solid-propellant booster permitted the almost instantaneous launch of a missile on alert. In 1969 Bomarc Bs were operational at six USAF sites in the United States and two RCAF sites in Canada. Bomarc As were phased out in the mid-1960s, but beginning in 1962 some were modified and flown as supersonic, high-altitude target drones (CQM-10a). Complete phase-out of the Bomarc's air defense mission was completed in October 1972.
TECHNICAL NOTES: Armament: Nuclear or conventional warheads Engines: Aerojet-General liquid rocket booster of 35,875 lbs. thrust; two Marquardt ramjets of 1,408 lbs. thrust each Speed: 1,975 mph./1,716 knots Range: 260 statute miles/226 nautical miles Service ceiling: 65,000 ft. Span: 18 ft. 2 in. Length: 46 ft. 10 in. Height: 10 ft. 4 in. Weight: 15,619 lbs.