Operation ''Bowline''

By Crusader1307

Operation ''Bowline'' was a series of (47) Nuclear weapons tests that were conducted totally underground, between 1968 and 1969. These tests happened at The Nevada National Security Zone (also known as ''Area 12''), located 65-miles North of Las Vegas. The location is 40-square miles and to this day is considered restricted and off General Public limits. The overall goal of ''Bowline'' was to test low-yield, battlefield grade devices. These devices would be adapted into surface to air and so-called ''Nuclear Artillery''. The average detonation was between 2 an 800-KT.

The totality of the tests were in underground bunkers and tunnels dug many miles deep into mesas or directly into the ground. In some cases, natural tunnels were modified for use. For a period of time, The City of Las Vegas was rivaling California as The ''Earthquake Capital'' of The United States, with the larger detonations being felt within the City. So frequent, they were often ignored by long time Residents.