Abstract: A missile container for storing a missile therein and having an extraction mechanism for extracting the missile from the container and placing the missile in the proper launch attitude.

Abstract: The system includes an elongated support structure positioned substantially central of the carrier missile, wherein the support structure includes a gas-actuated piston-like device which moves between a start position and an extended position. A series of elongated launch tubes, in which submissiles are positioned, are arranged around, and parallel to, the support structure. The forward end of each launch tube is pivotally connected to the central support structure. The other end of each launch tube is connected to the piston-like device through levers which are hinged at both ends, so that as the piston-like device moves, the rear end of the launch tubes move radially relative to the support structure, so that the launch tubes are at an angle relative to the carrier missile. In this position, the submissiles in the launch tubes may be ejected rearwardly of the carrier missile by an explosive charge or similar means.

Abstract: A shock suppressing device adapted to be attached to the aft end of a shoulder-fired rocket launcher. The device comprises a cylindrical housing defining a substantially enclosed expansion chamber having a diameter and cross-sectional area greater than that of the exhaust end of the launch tube. A plurality of annular baffles extend radially inwardly from the cylindrical housing and define aligned through openings through which a plug from a rocket being launched can be emitted rearwardly from the launch tube. The initial shock which follows the expulsion of the plug from the rocket is spread outwardly into the expansion chamber to engage the baffles therein. The baffles suppress the shock by absorbing a substantial portion of the energy of the shock wave, and also partially reflecting the shock wave in an upstream direction toward the launch tube. In the preferred form, the housing is made of several members which telescope together for storage, and are pulled out to an expanded position for use.