Bruce Simpson - DIY Cruise Missile

DIY Cruise Missile

Simpson garnered significant media attention in 2003 when he announced his intention to build a DIY cruise missile for US$5000 using only "off-the-shelf" technology, mostly purchased from eBay and other online stores. The purpose of the project was to prove the point he made in an article published on 20 May 2002 that a cruise missile can be built with off the shelf technology and knowledge available to the general public. Simpson states on his FAQ page that he is not developing a new technology or creating a new threat, but creating awareness of an existing threat with the hope that it will stimulate research into an effective defense.

The project was put on hold when Simpson was adjudged bankrupt after a prosecution by the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department. Simpson claimed that the prosecution was politically motivated, as it was the only legal strategy available to the government of New Zealand to stop his work. A documentary which aired in April 2004 explored the events surrounding his prosecution. Simpson resumed and completed construction of the prototype cruise missile. His website claims that the missile is in "safe hands" somewhere in New Zealand, in a location unknown to him. Simpson says that not knowing the missile's whereabouts is a legal strategy intended to prevent his prosecution while it is tested. Simpson also claims to be halfway finished with completing a second cruise missile which he intends to donate to a museum or educational institution. He stated an intention to release a book about his experience with the development of the missile, the media interest in 2003, and the reaction of the United States and New Zealand Governments to his announcement.