Flame Retardant Ballistic Materials for Missile Defense

Missile defense systems are now required to conform to the insensitive munitions requirements of MIL STD 2105C. Meeting such requirements in the ballistic missile defense system will require a layered approach involving modified shipping containers and canisters, improvements in solid rocket motor casings, and less sensitive solid rocket propellant. For mobile defense systems deployed in forward positions (such as PAC-3 and THAAD), it is particularly useful to address the container/canister since any improvements made to meet MIL STD 2105C will also prolong the field life of systems exposed to incoming fire. In the case of PAC-3, the canister is the shipping container. In the case of THAAD, it is field transported in a MRP. As such, weight is of key concern in both systems. Luna Innovations will examine lightweight, flame retardant ballistic laminates as well as potential design modifications to existing canisters that will mitigate thermal and ballistic threats.