Deactivation of New Jersey's Nike Missile Sites and Their Current Status
DEFENSE
In the 1950s, the U.S. Army established a network of Nike missile sites in New Jersey to defend against Soviet bombers. The sites included 14 Nike batteries and radar stations, with capabilities ranging from intercepting aircraft to launching nuclear-capable missiles.
By 1974, these sites were deactivated as military strategy shifted towards satellite surveillance and long-range radar. Many former sites have been repurposed for residential, commercial, or public use, while Sandy Hook remains preserved for historical tours.
Feb 26, 2026, 6:00 AM