Martin TM-61A Matador

Martin TM-61A Matador

As the U.S. Air Force's first pilotless bomber, the Matador used a concept similar to the German V-1 "buzz bomb" of World War II. Originally designated the B-61, the TM-61A surface-to-surface tactical missile carried either a conventional or nuclear warhead. Launched from a mobile 40-foot trailer by a booster rocket that fell away, the Matador continued toward its target powered by a jet engine. Unlike the V-1, however, the Matador was controlled electronically from the ground during flight.