Developed in the 1950s, the Bullpup became the first successful guided tactical air-to-ground missile used by the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Air Force. The radio-guided, rocket-propelled Bullpup missile could accurately hit a small, heavily-defended target like a bridge. The pilot tracked two flares on the back and guided it to the target with a small control stick. This method allowed the pilot to use a Bullpup from a safer, "standoff" distance.
The AGM-12B had a 250-lb warhead, making it light enough for many different types of aircraft to carry. However, the small explosive proved too small to destroy more substantial targets. Also, the guidance system required a pilot to fly in a straight line to keep a constant watch on the Bullpup A, which increased the threat from antiaircraft defenses. It was carried on U.S. Air Force F-100, F-105 and F-4 aircraft.
TECHNICAL NOTES:
Weight: 569 lbs.
Maximum speed: Mach 1.8 (1,365 mph)
Range: 7 miles
Propulsion: Thiokol (Reaction Motors) LR58-RM-4 liquid-fuel rocket motor of 12,000 lbs. thrust
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