https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhMEZtwvqYQ
What mountain houses underground operation center for NORAD, the nuclear missile tracking station?
Cheyenne Mountain, located near Colorado Springs, Colorado, is famous for housing one of the most secure and sophisticated military installations in the world: the Cheyenne Mountain Complex. This underground facility serves as the operations center for the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), responsible for tracking and monitoring aerospace activity and potential threats, including nuclear missile alerts.
The Cheyenne Mountain Complex was constructed during the Cold War, an era marked by heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. The need for a highly secure and resilient command center became apparent as the threat of nuclear war loomed large. Construction began in 1961 and was completed in 1966, creating an installation designed to withstand nuclear blasts, electromagnetic pulses, and other forms of attack.
The complex itself is an engineering marvel, built 2,000 feet under granite, with a series of 15 buildings mounted on massive springs to absorb shock. These buildings are encased within a system of tunnels and chambers, providing unparalleled protection against external threats. The entrance to the complex is a set of enormous blast doors that can seal the facility off from the outside world, ensuring that operations can continue even in the most extreme conditions.
Inside the complex, the facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to monitor and respond to aerospace threats. NORAD’s mission includes the detection, validation, and warning of attacks against North America, whether by aircraft, missiles, or space vehicles. The complex is staffed around the clock by personnel from both the United States and Canada, reflecting the binational nature of NORAD.
One of the key features of the Cheyenne Mountain Complex is its ability to operate autonomously in the event of an attack. The facility has its own water, power, and air filtration systems, allowing it to remain functional even if external infrastructure is compromised. This level of self-sufficiency ensures that NORAD can maintain its critical defense operations under any circumstances.
Beyond its military significance, the Cheyenne Mountain Complex has also captured the public’s imagination. It has been featured in various movies, television shows, and books, often depicted as the ultimate fortress and command center. Its portrayal in popular culture has cemented its status as an iconic symbol of military strength and resilience.
Source: Threads, Kompasiana