The Spartan is a development of the Zeus. It is longer and heavier. The 2nd stage is the same diameter as the booster. It has a greater range and altitude capability. During the 60's There was a series of ideas on how to use the Zeus/Spartan missile system. There was another short range missile, called the Sprint added to the mix. However, growth in numbers and sophisitation of the Soviet threat always outpaced the ability of defensive systems to cope. For a very short while a few Spartans were deployed around Minuteman Launch sites. Thus we came to rely on the "massive retaliation" doctrine for our safety. Fortunately the Soviets were not suicidal. The extensive system of Ajax and Hercules sites were also deactivated by the end of the 80's .
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