ColorPicV1

The German designed and built V-1 was the first operational cruise
missile in the world. Powered by a pulse jet system generating 770
pounds of thrust (or 3,400 newtons) the two and a half ton V-1 could
fly 150-200 miles to reach its target. The V-1 was developed during
the Second World War at Germany's Peenemunde research and testing
facility on the Baltic Coast.

The V-1 was most commonly launched from a ground ramp and was
assisted in reaching altitude by a powered catapult (it could also be
launched from a heavy payload aircraft such as a medium bomber).
After launch the V-1's guidance system would direct the missile
toward the target. The V-1 was relatively inaccurate and almost
useless as a military weapon; in addition it was slow, could be
knocked out of the sky by interceptor aircraft and was also plagued
by mechanical problems. As such only about 25% of the V-1's
Germany launched during the War hit their targets.

Germany built thousands of V-1's during the War with the vast
majority of those deemed operational launched at targets in England.
Of the V-1's launched at England a significant proportion were
directed at London; well over 2,000 V-1's struck London from June
1944 to early in 1945, killing or injuring over 20,000 people.

Picture Courtesy of Steven Mercatante