New documents obtained by LABRATS International from the National Archives (Air 20 / 10811) show the exposure of the aircrews of 76th Squadron and the risk and rigour of the nuclear testing program.
Yet the denial continues.
The document contains 137 pages:
This document states "problems of decontamination of aircraft and crews" at Operation Mosaic.
Radioactive materials flown to Changi for delivery to A.W.R.E Aldermaston
Conditions were found to leave much to be desired!
Canberras reached their maximum height of 54,000 ft and were unable to sample any higher.
Because of the need for long and intensive decontamination at Christmas Island and with unserviceability on the return route.
Notes are added to the main document:
WH207 disintegrated at height during the test firing of the scorpion rocket motor and the crew successfully ejected at 54,000 ft, which is a record height for ejection.
Faulty meters led to the aircrew being exposed to a 'heavy' dose of gamma rays:
On landing, it was discovered that this crew had in fact obtained an excessive dose of radiation. All 'Romeo' meters were changed from R per hour to R per min after this shift.
Conclusion
Disintegration, excessive dosage, unserviceable routes, 54,000 feet ejections, intensive decontamination. No-Risk, No-Rigour. Perhaps our MoD officials should look at these documents. More in part two.