Abstract: A projectile with a payload protection mechanism protects, prior to and during firing, a fragile payload, where the payload must be positioned forward in the nose of the projectile, within a frangible ogive which provides little protection to rough handling, at time of downrange function. The payload protection mechanism allows the payload to move axially within the projectile, and initially slid rearward in the more robust metal body of the projectile. The payload is retained within the body by a locking and release mechanism, until the launching of the projectile triggers (by environmental forces such as setback or spin) the release of a locking and release mechanism. Unlocking the mechanism allows the payload to slide forward within the projectile into the ogive so the payload can function as required.