More missile sites as part of London 2012 security
The Ministry of Defence announces six possible missile launch sites, including several in residential areas, to protect the skies over London during the Olympic Games.
On Sunday it emerged a watchtower in the middle of a residential area in east London had been selected as a possible venue. The most recent list also includes a tower block on a housing estate in east London, a site near the M25 in Epping Forest, one by a reservoir and another on top of a hill.
A spokesman for one local authority, Waltham Forest, said: “We were naturally surprised when we were approached about placing a missile system on the roof of Fred Wigg Tower during the Olympic Games.
“The Ministry of Defence has impressed upon us that this is the only suitable location in the vicinity and that the equipment will form a vital part of national defence plans.
“The armed forces are talking directly with residents to reassure them that disruption will be kept to a minimum and to answer any of their concerns.”
Press the button
The stationing of air defence weapons systems is part of the planned military operation which will see jets, helicopers and hundreds of troops being deployed on the ground.
The Olympic security coordinator, Assistant Commssioner Chris Allison, said no troops will be used on the streets of Britain. Specialist military units will be on standby and some unarmed soliders will be used inside Olympic venues to help in the security operation.
From Wednesday, a major eight-day exercise, codenamed Olympic Guardian, will begin, involving RAF Typhoon jets, airborne early warning helicopters, Puma helicopters carrying snipers, an aircraft carrier, and an amphibious assault warship.
Standing Joint Commander (UK) General Sir Nick Parker said: “There are two broad threats, a worst case scenario but least likely 9/11 type and the other is a low and slow one.
“The decision to press the button to launch any missile will be taken at the very highest political level.”