Bruce Simpson

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Bruce Simpson is a New Zealand based inventor, technologist and technology media commentator. He achieved significant media profile in 2003 when he announced his intention to build a DIY cruise missile for NZ$5000 using only "off-the-shelf" technology. 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.^[1] Bruce 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. ^[2] The project was put on hold when Simpson was adjudged bankrupt after a prosecution by the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department. Bruce claims 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 of 2004 explored the events surrounding his prosecution.^[3] Bruce resumed and completed construction of the prototype cruise missile. On his website Bruce claims that the missile is in "safe hands" somewhere in New Zealand, in a location unknown to him. Bruce says that not knowing the missile's whereabouts is a legal strategy intended to prevent his prosecution while it is tested.^[4] Bruce also claims to be halfway finished with completing a second cruise missile which he intends to donate to a museum or educational institution.^[5] He is releasing a book about his experience with the development of the missile, the media storm in 2003, and the reaction of the United States and New Zealand Governments to his announcement.^[6]

Simpson has been heavily involved in the development of pulsejet technology. He has served as an expert build adviser on the television show Scrapheap challenge when the episode revolved around building jet powered drag cars. Simpson also has significant experience in the world of radio control model aircraft design and construction. It was the combination of these areas of expertise which led to the cruise missile project.

[edit] Quotes

"Personally, I'm more than a little worried at the prospect of terror groups or others constructing and launching their own LCCMs."

"The IRD [NZ Tax Agency] had been happily accepting my payments for two years, until the cruise missile project drew the scorn of the US government -- then everything changed overnight."

"The very fact that so many people with known anti-USA affiliations were turning up to have flying lessons and simulator time was enough to ring alarm bells at the FBI -- when it comes to the LCCM [Low Cost Cruise Missile] we might not be quite so lucky."

"In the 21st century, technology plays no favorites -- it is the slave of anyone who chooses to master it."

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This article has been tagged since May 2008.