National Socialist war and armaments planning gave high priority to rocket and aviation technology. Wernher von Braun’s program to develop the V-2, a long-range ballistic artillery rocket, was regarded as particularly significant. The program was supported by the military and later by the SS with all available means. The first successful launch of the V-2 occurred in 1942. Starting in 1944, it was used mainly against British cities. Promoted as the "wonder weapon," the V-2 had hardly any influence on the war. In fact, it played a more important role in propaganda campaigns than in military ones. Until the end of the war, many Germans believed these weapons would give Germany a last-minute "final victory."