In 1944, Germany deployed the world's first long-range guided ballistic missiles, known as V-2 rockets, against Allied forces. This marked a significant advancement in military technology, showcasing the potential of guided missiles in warfare. The V-2 rocket not only caused extensive destruction but also represented a turning point in the arms race, influencing post-war missile development and space exploration efforts, particularly during the Cold War.

The V-2 rocket attacks introduced a new dimension of terror in warfare, influencing poets like W.H. Auden and Stephen Spender to explore themes of destruction and the fragility of human life. This technological advancement foreshadowed the incorporation of nuclear and sci-fi elements in poetry, marking a shift in how poets addressed modern fears.