M114 bomb

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M114 Bomb
The M114 bomb, a U.S. chemical munition
Type	Chemical bomb
Service history
Used by
Wars	Cold War
Production history
Designer	U.S. Army
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Weight	500 lb (227 kg)
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The M114 bomb was a chemical munition developed by the United States during the Cold War era. It was designed to deliver Sarin, a potent nerve agent, over a wide area to incapacitate or kill enemy forces. The M114 was part of a broader arsenal of chemical weapons maintained by the U.S. military during this period.

Design and Development

The M114 bomb was developed in the 1950s as part of the U.S. military's efforts to enhance its chemical warfare capabilities. The bomb was designed to be dropped from aircraft and disperse its chemical payload over a target area. The M114 was a 500-pound bomb, with approximately 60 to 70 pounds of Sarin as its filling.

Sarin, also known by its NATO designation GB, is a highly toxic organophosphorus compound. It disrupts the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine and causing continuous muscle contractions, paralysis, and potentially death.

Operational History

The M114 bomb was never used in combat, as the United States adhered to a policy of deterrence and maintained its chemical weapons primarily as a counterbalance to the perceived threat from the Soviet Union. The bomb was part of the U.S. chemical weapons stockpile until the 1960s, when international pressure and changing military strategies led to a reduction in chemical weapons.

Disposal and Demilitarization

In the latter half of the 20th century, the United States began to dismantle its chemical weapons stockpile, including the M114 bomb, in compliance with international treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The CWC, which came into force in 1997, mandates the destruction of chemical weapons and prohibits their use, development, production, and stockpiling.

Health and Environmental Impact

The use of Sarin and other chemical weapons poses significant health risks to both military personnel and civilians. Exposure to Sarin can result in symptoms ranging from mild respiratory distress to severe neurological damage and death. The disposal of chemical munitions like the M114 bomb requires careful handling to prevent environmental contamination and ensure public safety.

Also see

• Chemical Weapons Convention
• Sarin
• Chemical warfare
• Cold War
• Nerve agent