MGR-3 Little John

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	Weapon: MGR-3 Little John Type: Rocket Artillery Country of Origin: United States Year Adopted: 1956 Overall Length (mm): 6500.0 Overall Length (in): 255.91 Weight (kg): 1700.00 Weight (pounds): 3747.86

The MGR-3 Little John was a light, tactical surface-to-surface rocket developed by the United States during the Cold War. Designed in the 1950s, it was intended as a smaller, more portable alternative to the larger MGR-1 Honest John. The Little John used a solid-fuel rocket motor and was unguided, relying on a simple ballistic trajectory. It had a maximum range of approximately 10 miles and could deliver either conventional high-explosive or nuclear warheads, making it a versatile option for battlefield support.

Production of the Little John began in 1957, with around 2,000 units manufactured. The rocket was notable for its ease of transport and deployment, as it could be assembled and launched quickly from a simple tripod launcher. It was primarily deployed with U.S. Army units in Europe and Asia, where it served as part of NATO's tactical nuclear deterrence strategy. Despite its relatively short range, the system was valued for its simplicity, reliability, and ability to operate in rugged or austere environments.

The MGR-3 Little John remained in service until the early 1970s when it was retired in favor of more advanced missile systems with improved accuracy and range. While it was not as widely recognized as larger tactical missile systems, the Little John played a critical role in providing flexible nuclear firepower to U.S. and allied forces during its operational lifespan. Its compact design and straightforward operation make it a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile tactical rocket systems.