Each silo had its own eight-digit launch code, which was valid for a single week. To prevent misuse of Appalachia's automated missile silos, security measures for the region's nuclear arsenal have been increased well beyond any of US's contemporary standards.
The general ordering the launch also had to input the correct launch code. To authorize a nuclear strike, the keycard was just the first step. The system relied on single-use nuclear keycards, which were delivered through logistics officer and automated Strategic Air Command cargobot deliveries to the region. The silos were designed to be use with a minimum of human oversight, with one exception: Launching the nuclear weapons. He was silenced with a threat of imprisoning him for sowing dissension and inciting panic. The construction of an automated network of silos in Appalachia was firmly opposed by Senator Sam Blackwell, who raised objections to the discrepancies between military and civilian warning systems.
