“While it performed its mission well for 48 years, outlived technology and fiscal constraints have driven Misawa Security Operations Center to seek new ways of doing business,” said Col. Joseph Winters, a 373rd Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance commander.
However, the assembly will not soon be forgotten.
“This massive structure has architecturally graced the northern skyline overlooking Lake Ogawara and is said to be considered a symbol of luck by the local Japanese,” Winters said. “The Elephant Cage was undoubtedly part of Misawa’s past and present, and it will be missed.”
The demolition project will bring an additional $4.97 million into the Japanese economy and employ more than 250 Japanese nationals.
The project is expected to last until September 2015.
The last standing Elephant Cage is located at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska.
“During its long life the antenna played a major part in the Cold War and beyond,” said Col. Andrew Hansen, the 35th Fighter Wing vice commander. “However, the technology has outlived its usefulness and requires new ways of operating. The demolition of the Elephant Cage marks the end of an era.”