.I hadn't twigged to this until you mentioned it, Tony, but I imagine the buunged fender was a result of the firing of the rockets.
Before:
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Low elevation. Backblast clears the fenders nicely. "Bet we could get some additional range if we cranked her up a titch..."
During - note the fender taking abuse:
http://4.bp.########.com/-dnr4Gw2zRbY/VR11oWZXnZI/AAAAAAAAkYM/ysIY_LE4_4k/s1600/stag%2Btulip%2Bfiring.jpg
After - Bet the other side is just as bunged...
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"Goddamn it, the RSM's gonna be pissed. Who's brilliant idea was this?"
Yes and they prudently left the auxiliary fuel tanks off of the demo vehicle as well....