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The Vulcan story had its origins in 1946, when the British government launched a secret programme to design, build and test a nuclear weapon. At that time it was believed that only by the possession of such a weapon, could the nation retain its role as a major player on the world stage. Possession of the devastating new weapon would count for little, however, unless the nation also possessed a viable means to deliver it. To that end, in December 1946, the Ministry of Supply issued Specification B35/46 calling for a high-performance long-range bomber able to carry a nuclear weapon. The requirement specified a jet propelled aircraft with a maximum speed of 500kts, an over-target altitude of 50,000ft and a range of 3,350 nautical miles. The aircraft was to be able to carry a single nuclear weapon 25ft long, 5ft wide and weighing up to 10,000lbs, or a similar weight of high-explosive bombs. It was hoped to bring the new bomber into service in 1951.