This next-generation design significantly enhances the motor's ability to reduce the thrust after the initial boost phase, facilitating the U.S. Army's desire to extend the range of next-generation anti-tank missiles. The self-regulating nozzle reduces thrust via a passive, self-actuating system that accommodates changes in propellant burn rate and surface area.

The test demonstrated a thrust turndown ratio in excess of 19:1 with only a 2:1 turndown ratio in pressure. Both the boost phase and sustain phase used the same Class 1.3 Minimum Signature propellant. The measured boost phase thrust averaged more than 650 pounds-force at an average pressure of 1,800 psi while the sustained flight phase averaged just under 35 pounds-force at an average pressure of 800 psi.

The thrust turndown demonstrated a major improvement over conventional tactical rocket motors operating at maximum turndown ratios of approximately 6:1 with similar turndowns in pressure. In addition to the significant improvement in thrust turndown, this system has also shown promise in mitigating the performance variance associated with a tactical rocket motor operating over a large temperature range. It is also designed to easily transform to a fully controllable pintle if desired.

ATK Tactical Systems, Rocket Center, W. Va. Is performing the Controllable Thrust Propulsion program under contract to the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command Propulsion and Structures Directorate at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. The program objective is to provide energy management solutions to increase the range and flexibility of next-generation tactical missiles, such as Joint Common Missile (JCM) and the Compact Kinetic Energy Missile (CKEM).

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