Non-focusing active warhead

Patent · 22 December 1998

OSTI ID:321201

Hornig, H C

A non-nuclear, non-focusing, active warhead that comprises a high explosive charge contained within a casing of reactive metal is disclosed. When the high explosive is detonated, the reactive metal is dispersed and reacts with the air, which significantly increases the explosive yield of the warhead. The active warhead produces therefore much higher blast effects with significantly reduced weight compared to conventional munitions. The warhead is highly effective against such targets as aircraft which typically have thin fuselages, for example. The explosiveness of this warhead can be enhanced further by elevating the temperature and therefore the reactivity of the reactive metal before or during the explosion. New methods of enhancing the reactivity of the metal are also taught. 4 figs.

• Research Organization: University of California
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States); Department of the Air Force, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• Assignee: Air Force, Washington, DC (United States)
• Patent Number(s): US 5,852,256/A/
• Application Number: PAN: 6-024,641
• OSTI ID: 321201
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
BLAST EFFECTS
CHEMICAL EXPLOSIVES
CONVENTIONAL WARFARE
DESIGN
MILITARY EQUIPMENT
WEAPONS