- Source: W42 (nuclear warhead)
The W42 was an American nuclear fission weapon developed in 1957.
In December 1957 the Army requested the Atomic Energy Commission to develop a nuclear warhead for the HAWK low- to medium-altitude surface-to-air missile. In July 1958 the military characteristics were approved for the new warhead and the design released. Two months later the requirement for a HAWK with a nuclear warhead was cancelled.
The warhead was briefly considered for the AAM-N-10 Eagle long-range air-to-air missile
The dimensions of the warhead were 13–14 in (33–36 cm) wide by 18.5 in (47 cm) long. It weighed 75–92 pounds (34–42 kg) and used a proximity fuze.
The project was cancelled in June 1961.