Developing Solid Rocket Motor Insensitive Munitions Solutions for Impact and Rocket Propelled

Enerchem proposes to develop and demonstrate innovative concepts to protect solid rocket motors from impact events. Specifically our ignition delay concept has the potential to mitigate the overpressure, fragmentation and collateral damage that is usually incurred upon bullet or fragment impact on large motors. This concept is part of a systems approach to meeting the IM requirements and is integrated with other mitigation approaches in our Phase I program. Specifically the use of bore mitigants, formulation of tough propellants, and the utilization of low pressure designs and low burning rate propellants to the degree possible are all considered in Enerchem’s integrated IM design approach. In Phase I we will develop a generic test motor design, that is compatible with the MDA mission requirements, and will serve to demonstrate the IM and kinematic capabilities in Phase II. We will also address the shaped charge jet threat in this proposal and will develop a data base and define the relationship of formulation variables to the shock sensitivity. With respect to the SJC threat, our Phase I activity will focus on propellant trade studies and defining the Phase II test plan and test configurations. Results of this program will provide the basis to design missile system that can meet the IM criteria for SJC attack and minimize collateral damage.