Radar Observation of Unidentified Flying Object — Iwo Jima, 24 June 1953

This document is an Air Intelligence Information Report (IR-1-53) detailing a series of radar sightings of an unidentified flying object near Iwo Jima on 24 June 1953. The sightings were reported by the crew of a KB-29 aircraft. The radar observer, Captain George A. Peters, noted three distinct radar contacts at 1330Z, 1340Z, and 1350Z. During these contacts, the object appeared at distances of 20 miles, 6 miles, and 15 miles, respectively, and was observed to close to within 1/2 mile of the KB-29. The object's speed was estimated between 500 and 800 MPH. During the second observation, a crew member reported seeing two red lights and one white light visually, which were later attributed to lights on Iwo Jima. The report includes extensive documentation, including radar scope photographs, electronics data sheets, and correspondence between various military commands, including FEAF Bomber Command and the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC). The official conclusion reached by intelligence officers was that the radar returns were likely caused by interference or anomalous propagation, and the visual sightings were not related to the radar returns. The document also contains information regarding the 'Hell Roarer,' a magnesium flare device used for night photography, which was investigated as a potential source for various 'flying saucer' reports during this period. The file includes multiple radar scope photographs and diagrams illustrating the flight paths of the object relative to the KB-29.