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This model was built by the General Dynamics plant in Pomona, CA as a concept model to demonstrate to the Air Force what an MX Missile railroad launch car would look like. The idea behind this concept was to create a number of railcars that would constantly move about our vast railroad track system in the western U.S., thus confounding the Soviet target planners. Some cars would carry dummy missiles and some would have live ones. It was theorized that the moving cars would be less expensive and less vulnerable than missile silos. Ultimately, the MX missile program was cancelled and evolved into the Minuteman III and the Midget Man Missiles. This wonderful model (length of track 40" x 9" base , missile car 33" x 4.15 x 8", height of missile extended 33") appeared in defense publications of the day, such as "Missiles and Rockets". As far as is known, this was the only concept model built. It was probably gazed upon by the likes of General Curtis LeMay and officials such as Robert McNamara as it graced conference tables. A museum quality working model, which may be displayed either in launch position with the missile upright, or with the missile stowed and the missile doors closed. The side access doors unlatch and open and close; the support jacks to brace and level the car extend and retract. This model is in very good condition and bears evidence of minor restoration.
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