This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (December 2012) |
Pinetree Line | |
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Active | 1951–1991 |
Country | Canada |
Branch | Royal Canadian Air Force United States Air Force |
Type | Early-warning radar |
Role | Continental Air Defense |
Part of | North American Aerospace Defense Command |
The Pinetree Line was a series of radar stations located across southern Canada at about the 50th parallel north, along with a number of other stations located on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Run by North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) (after its creation), over half were staffed by United States Air Force personnel with the balance operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force. The line was the first coordinated system for early detection of a Soviet bomber attack on North America, but before the early 1950s radar technology quickly became outdated and the line was in full operation only for a short time.