199th Ord. Det. Nike DS

The 199th Ordnance Detachment (Nike DS) was a specialized U.S. Army unit responsible for the maintenance and support of Nike missile systems during the Cold War. Activated in the mid-20th century, the detachment played a critical role in ensuring the operational readiness of Nike air defense sites, which protected key American cities and strategic locations from potential Soviet air attacks. The 199th Ord. Det. provided direct support (DS) maintenance, handling complex repairs and logistical support for the sophisticated missile systems. The unit was eventually inactivated as the Nike missile program was phased out in the 1970s, following advances in missile technology and changes in national defense strategy.