IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The Bombardic Missile is an aerospace artifact, not a traditional vessel. It was part of Cold War-era missile testing conducted at Point Petre, Ontario. The Bombardic Missile was designed for military applications, reflecting the technological advancements and geopolitical tensions of the mid-20th century. These tests were crucial for developing missile technologies and contributed to Canada’s defense capabilities during that period.
HISTORY: #
Point Petre, located along the shores of Lake Ontario, was a significant site for military testing during the Cold War. In addition to its use for launching Avro Arrow test models, the area was also a testing ground for various missile systems, including the Bombardic Missile. These tests were part of broader efforts to advance Canada’s military technology during a time of global tension and arms races.
The Bombardic Missile was one of several experimental missiles tested in the area. The testing involved launching missiles over Lake Ontario to assess their performance, range, and reliability. Many of these missiles were intentionally destroyed or lost during testing, and their remains were presumed to have settled on the lakebed.
In 2001, while conducting underwater searches for the long-lost Avro Arrow test models, a significant discovery was made—a Bombardic Missile was located on the lakebed. The find was unexpected, as the search efforts were primarily focused on recovering artifacts related to the Avro Arrow program. The discovery of the missile provided valuable insights into the missile testing activities that took place at Point Petre and highlighted the region’s importance in Canada’s military history.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
The Bombardic Missile remains submerged at its location in Lake Ontario. The missile’s condition and exact specifications have been preserved as part of the ongoing effort to document and understand Canada’s Cold War-era technological advancements. The artifact remains an important piece of history, shedding light on the experimental military activities that took place in the region.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no specific Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) directly related to the Bombardic Missile site. However, due to the potential hazards associated with unexploded military ordnance, it is advisable for mariners and divers to exercise caution in the area and consult local advisories.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
The Bombardic Missile was located in 2001 by a team conducting underwater searches for Avro Arrow test models. The discovery was part of a broader effort to recover lost artifacts from Canada’s Cold War-era military testing programs.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Cold War History in Canada: Canadian War Museum
- Military Testing Sites in Ontario: Ontario Heritage Trust
- Avro Arrow and Related Discoveries: Raise the Arrow
KEYWORDS: #
Bombardic Missile, Lake Ontario, Point Petre, Cold War Testing, Canadian Military History, Avro Arrow, Missile Testing.
ANALYSIS: #
The discovery of the Bombardic Missile near Point Petre serves as a reminder of the intense technological and military development that occurred during the Cold War. While the missile was not originally the focus of the 2001 search efforts, its recovery highlights the multifaceted nature of Canada’s defense research during this period. The missile’s preservation contributes to our understanding of the historical context of Cold War-era military testing in Canada.
