Groom Lake, NV: U-2 base secured for CIA
In April 1955, Richard M. Bissell Jr. obtained presidential approval to incorporate Groom Lake into AEC lands for CIA's U-2 testing. Kelly Johnson proposed 'Paradise Ranch' for the site during talks with agency officials.
Background
Background
In April 1955, Richard M. Bissell Jr., head of the U-2 project, secured a presidential decision adding the area around Groom Lake in Nevada to the Atomic Energy Commission's test ranges for CIA use. This made possible secret testing of the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft under Project Aquatone.
Key Events
Kelly Johnson, chief designer at Lockheed, met CIA representatives in Washington, D.C. to discuss progress. He suggested the name "Paradise Ranch" for the new facility, in order to attract staff. The area was considered ideal for secure flight testing, far from public view.
Witnesses and Evidence
The CIA, the AEC, and Lockheed staff were involved. Sources such as Peter W. Merlin's timeline and CIA documents confirm the incorporation of Groom Lake as Area 51. A survey began on May 4, which set the construction of a runway in motion.
Significance
This marked the origin of Area 51 as a test site for spy aircraft during the Cold War, under a high level of secrecy.