Abstract: An assembly for attaching a re-entry vehicle to its booster with a high preload force includes a split nut and a split band for encompassing the nut and retaining it in a collapsed condition in which it forces the booster against the re-entry vehicle at the desired preload level. The split band is held in an assembled condition about the nut by a plurality of separation bolts and a plurality of yieldable belleville washer and bolt assemblies. Actuating the separation bolts allows the band to move to a disassembled condition and the split nut to an expanded condition. However, the rate of their movements is controlled by the spring rate of the belleville washers whereby the preload is released in a gradual manner.