Countermeasure system and method for defeating incoming projectiles

Abstract

A countermeasure system for intercepting an incoming weapon, such as a rocket propelled grenade (RPG), includes a launcher that is used to launch a countermeasure. A door covers and protects the countermeasure in an opening in the launcher prior to the launch of the countermeasure. The door is separated (pushed away) from launcher when the countermeasure is launched, for example being pushed out into a flight path of the countermeasure by the countermeasure itself. The door may be attached to the countermeasure, or may be a separate piece that flies away from both the countermeasure and the launcher after launch of the countermeasure. Pitch over motors or other orientation adjustment devices may be used to change the orientation of the countermeasure after launch. The countermeasure may be used to defeat the incoming weapon in any of a variety ways.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The invention is in the field of countermeasure systems and methods for defeating incoming projectiles.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) are examples of a type of projectile that poses a great threat to ground vehicles, aircraft, and helicopters. RPGs are commonly used during close-in military engagements, where the shooter and the target are close to one another. The flight time of an RPG to target is on the order of 100 milliseconds. Therefore a fast response is important in defeating an incoming RPG, as well as many other types of incoming weapons.[0005]In addition, it is desirable that countermeasures for defeating incoming weapons be protected from bullets, shrapnel, and other threats, prior to use. Armor has been used to protect the countermeasures, and protective doors used to cover launch openings have been moved out of the way by use of pyrotechnic-, hydraulic-, and / o...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a countermeasures system that includes a launcher with one or more countermeasures released from openings in the launcher. The countermeasures are protected prior to launch by doors that are pushed out of contact with the launcher by the countermeasures, as the countermeasures are launched. The system also includes a door that separates from the launcher when the countermeasure is launched from the launcher. The invention is useful for protecting from an incoming weapon and can be utilized in a method for defeating the weapon using the countermeasure. The technical effects of the invention include improved safety, protection, and effectiveness of countermeasures.

Problems solved by technology

However, these mechanisms all take some time to operate, and / or require a large amount of potential energy to be stored up and then released in a short time.

Storage of a large amount of potential energy may require a large volume and / or weight, and release of a large amount of energy in a short time may be hazardous if accidentally actuated prior to operation.

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