The closest the world has come to nuclear war. Strategic Air Command raised to DEFCON 2.
Detailed Account
The Cuban Missile Crisis of October 1962 remains the closest the world has ever come to nuclear war. When American U-2 reconnaissance aircraft discovered Soviet nuclear missiles being installed in Cuba, President Kennedy ordered a naval blockade of the island.
The Strategic Air Command was raised to DEFCON 2 - the highest alert level ever reached. B-52 bombers were placed on continuous airborne alert, and ICBMs were prepared for launch. For 13 days, the world stood on the brink of nuclear annihilation before Soviet Premier Khrushchev agreed to remove the missiles.
This crisis led to the establishment of the Moscow-Washington hotline and became a turning point in Cold War relations.
The Strategic Air Command was raised to DEFCON 2 - the highest alert level ever reached. B-52 bombers were placed on continuous airborne alert, and ICBMs were prepared for launch. For 13 days, the world stood on the brink of nuclear annihilation before Soviet Premier Khrushchev agreed to remove the missiles.
This crisis led to the establishment of the Moscow-Washington hotline and became a turning point in Cold War relations.
Commands Affected
Strategic Air Command
About DEFCON 2
DEFCON 2 - FAST PACE
Armed forces ready to deploy and engage in less than 6 hours. Next step to nuclear war.
Forces ready for combat. Personnel recalled from leave. Strategic bombers on alert. Missiles on standby.
Learn More About DEFCON 2