SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
A WC-135R Constant Phoenix, a specialized US Air Force aircraft nicknamed the “nuclear sniffer,” was spotted conducting a mission off the west coast of India. While the exact nature of the operation is unclear, it’s likely a calibration flight to ensure the aircraft’s systems are functioning properly.
The WC-135R, nicknamed “Nuclear Sniffer,” plays a vital role in upholding the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963 by detecting radioactive materials in the atmosphere. Operating out of Diego Garcia, the aircraft likely flew near India’s Kaiga Nuclear Power Plant and the Trombay Nuclear Research Facility managed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai.
The WC-135R, derived from the Boeing C-135 Stratolifter, plays a vital role in upholding the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963. This modified aircraft is equipped with an advanced atmospheric collection suite, allowing its crew to detect radioactive particles and gases in real-time.
The Constant Phoenix utilizes external devices to gather particulates on filters and a compressor system to collect air samples in holding spheres. This collected material is then analyzed to identify any potential nuclear test activity.
The WC-135R’s presence near Indian facilities is not necessarily cause for alarm. Such flights are standard practice to ensure the aircraft’s systems are functioning properly and to maintain vigilance under the Limited Test Ban Treaty.
While the specific reasons behind this mission are unknown, such flights are often conducted for calibration purposes to ensure the aircraft’s systems are functioning optimally. Transparency regarding these missions can help alleviate potential concerns, especially when they occur near sensitive locations.
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