Documents / Report
Air Intelligence Division Study No. 203 is a Top Secret analysis dated 10 December 1948, prepared jointly by the USAF Directorate of Intelligence and the Office of Naval Intelligence. It reviews about 210 reported flying object incidents and concludes that some type of flying object has been observed, though its identity and origin cannot be determined. The study treats domestic devices or Soviet aircraft based on German flying-wing designs as possible explanations. It also summarizes selected sighting and radar reports.
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## C ## TOP SECRET d. FAMILIARIZATION FLIGHTS OVER U.S. TERRITORY. This possible reason is perhaps the most improbable. It is assumed that, should this purpose be involved, other purposes are probably also accomplished in its execution. Provided the U.S.S.R. has unusually high performance aircraft they might find it advantageous to familiarize themselves with the topography of the U.S. in anticipation of future combat missions to strategic targets. 5. CONCLUSION. The conclusion that some type of flying object has been observed over the U.S. seems to be substantiated. It is not known at this time whether these observations are misidentifications of domestically launched devices, natural phenomena, or foreign unconventional aircraft. It is, therefore, impossible to make any reliable explanation for their appearance over the U.S. or the tactics which they may employ if the objects observed include any foreign developments in aero-nautical fields. It is likewise impossible at this time to contain discussions of possible performance characteristics or tactics within limits of practical reason, if for no other reason than the fact that proof of the existence of a foreign development of this type would necessarily introduce considerations of new principals and means not yet considered practical possibilities in our own research and development.
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