On Fri, 23 Feb 2007, Graeme Wall wrote:

In message
"Clive Coleman." wrote:

In message , Graeme Wall
writes

As for the SLBMS I'm not sure the Americans can physically prevent us
launching them, we sure as hell can't stop them launching theirs.

I watched a programme years ago on a channel like National
Geographical, and if I remember, the sub had to be in contact (radio
wise) with the white house and unless they entered the right code into
the system, it won't work.

Thay's for USN boats, RN boats have to be in contact with Northwood and
thence to Downing Street. Exactly how they get their launch codes is,
for obvious reasons, not widely advertised. However there is alldgedly
a back-up plan whereby a boat captain can launch on his own initiative

Wing attack plan R, anyone?

if they fail to get the shipping forecast.

Actually, AIUI, it's the Today programme.

tom

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