Abstract: A ram accelerator for accelerating a projectile is provided. The ram accelerator includes a baffle section configured to start the projectile in the ram accelerator without an obturator. The ram accelerator generally includes a tube having a projectile bore; and a baffle section operably coupled to a proximal end of the tube. The baffle section has an annular baffle wall defining a central bore axially aligned with the projectile bore; and a propellant chamber arranged adjacent to the annular baffle wall, wherein the propellant chamber is configured to enclose a propellant. The propellant can be ignited as the projectile passes through the baffle section by pressure created by the projectile, by an ignition source, or by a flame carried by the projectile to start the ram acceleration of the projectile.

Abstract: A ram accelerator for accelerating a projectile is provided. The ram accelerator includes a first tube body having a first projectile bore, a second tube body having a second projectile bore axially aligned with the first projectile bore, and a baffle positioned between and operably coupling the first and second tube bodies. The baffle can have an annular baffle wall defining a central bore that is axially aligned with the first and second projectile bores, and a chamber arranged adjacent to the annular baffle wall. The chamber can extend radially outward from the central bore and the annular baffle wall can be configured to sweep a combustion wave relative to the projectile to prevent the combustion wave from traveling ahead of the projectile, leading to an unstart mechanism of the projectile in the ram accelerator.

Abstract: Continuous rotating detonation engines including an annular combustion chamber formed between substantially concentric inner and outer cylindrical shells. A plurality of ignition devices extend into the annular combustion chamber and can be positioned around a circumference of at least one of the inner and outer cylindrical shells. Each ignition device is operative to provide ignition energy to the combustion chamber upon respective activation thereof. A plurality of injection openings extend radially through at least one of the inner and outer cylindrical shells for fluid communication with the annular combustion chamber.