About this Unit
The 11th United States Army Field Artillery Detachment (11th USAFAD) was a specialized unit of the U.S. Army during the Cold War, stationed in West Germany. Tasked with the custodial security and maintenance of nuclear warheads, the 11th USAFAD worked closely with NATO allies, primarily supporting the Belgian Army's artillery units. The detachment ensured that nuclear ordnance could be rapidly deployed if authorized, reflecting the U.S. commitment to NATO's nuclear sharing policy. The unit was inactivated following the end of the Cold War and the subsequent reduction of U.S. nuclear weapons in Europe.
Historical Facts
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NATO Mission: The 11th United States Army Field Artillery Detachment (11th USAFAD) was a key element in the NATO nuclear sharing program, responsible for the custody and control of U.S. nuclear warheads assigned to Belgian missile units during the Cold War.
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Location: The unit was based in Werl, West Germany, and worked closely with the Belgian 14th Artillery Battalion, which operated the Honest John and later the MGM-52 Lance tactical nuclear missiles.
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Activation Date: The 11th USAFAD was officially activated in 1961 and served throughout the Cold War until its deactivation in the early 1990s following the end of the Cold War and reduction of tactical nuclear weapons in Europe.
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Dual-Key System: The unit operated under a “dual-key” arrangement, meaning both U.S. and Belgian officers had to authorize the use of the nuclear weapons, symbolizing close NATO cooperation and preventing unauthorized use.
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Composition: The 11th USAFAD was a small but highly specialized unit, typically comprising fewer than 100 American personnel, including security, maintenance, and administrative staff.
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Intense Security: The American warheads under 11th USAFAD’s control were stored in highly secure bunkers, protected by layers of physical security, armed guards, and advanced electronic surveillance.
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Community Ties: U.S. soldiers and their families were integrated into the local Werl community, forming close relationships with their Belgian and German neighbors and participating in local events and traditions.
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Deactivation: The end of the Cold War and the signing of arms reduction agreements such as the INF Treaty led to the withdrawal of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons from Belgium and the deactivation of the 11th USAFAD in the early 1990s.
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Legacy: Veterans of the unit maintain an active association, sharing their unique experiences and preserving the history of this small but vital Cold War unit through reunions and online forums.
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Honors and Recognition: The 11th USAFAD received several commendations during its service, reflecting its professionalism, high operational standards, and crucial role in NATO’s deterrence strategy.
