Reduced Drag Connector for Hellfire Missile

The Hellfire missile has significant drag added from the accommodations for the shotgun connector needed to interface with the M299 launcher. In this program, CMA Technologies, Inc. will further our design of a low profile connector that will significantly reduce this drag. One key to the design is a custom adapter assembly that will allow the modified Hellfire to mate with the M299 with no changes to the launcher. The adapter assembly contains features that keep in attached to the launcher when the missile is fired. Our design will allow the new missile to be used as a wooden round and will not interfere with the use of legacy missiles. Our program will further refine the design, perform a thorough analysis of the lift and drag savings, perform logistics studies and build a prototype of the connector and adapter than can be tested. This program will prepare the design for incorporation into the Hellfire program via an Engineering Change Program. In addition to giving significant drag savings to Hellfire, our design concept is applicable to other rail-launched missiles to include JAGM and Griffon. CMA will explore commercializing our approach for these missiles as well.