Lightweight, Multi-functional Electronic Enclosures for KEI

The Kinetic Energy Interceptor (KEI) missile intercepts incoming ballistic missiles during the launch portion of their flight. Achieving the peak velocity with current rocket motor technology has presented the KEI missile lead contractor, Raytheon, with an aggressive low weight challenge for the interceptor payload. KEI engineers have proposed lightweight materials for most of the payload components in order to meet the payload weight requirements. SDC proposes a program to develop and demonstrate multifunctional composite structures for Lightweight KEI Electronics Housings as a solution to meet the KEI structure system performance and weight goals. The KEI Electronics Housing performs several other functions besides being an enclosure, such as thermal management, electrical shielding and grounding, vibration suppression, and nuclear hardness. Choosing materials and designs that address these secondary functions with innovative integration into the Housing reduces redundancy and therefore, weight, of the component.