Abstract: Disclosed is an ordnance-launching tube, including a rear door and an expulsion circuit between a source of pressurized fluid and the tube, and provided with a unit for closing this circuit having an actuator that can be maneuvered by an operator in order to permit the expulsion, the actuator being associated with a detector for the presence of the rear door in the tube-closing position and with a lock for this rear door in the tube-closing position, which can be actuated via a bolt that the operator can move between a first position preventing expulsion and a second position permitting expulsion when the door is in the closing position and locked. The bolt includes an abutment movable between a position blocking the actuator in position to prevent expulsion, and a position releasing the actuator so that they may be actuated by the operator, and thus permit expulsion.

Abstract: A launch canister for ejection from a submerged launch platform, the launch canister being adapted for ejection in a direction substantially along a first axis of the launch canister and comprising: an enclosure for carrying a UAV; a nose cap releasably located in a launch opening at a forward end of the launch canister; a launch mechanism for driving a UAV carried in the enclosure out of the launch canister through the launch opening in a direction substantially along said first axis; and a water surface sensor for detecting when the nose cap of the canister broaches the surface of the water; wherein the launch canister is configured to, on the water surface sensor detecting that the nose cap of the canister has broached the surface of the water, immediately release the nose cap and initiate the launch mechanism to drive a UAV carried in the enclosure out of the launch canister through the launch opening.

Abstract: A launch canister for ejection from a submerged launch platform, the launch canister being adapted for ejection in a direction substantially along a first axis of the launch canister and comprising: an enclosure for carrying a UAV; a nose cap releasably located in a launch opening at a forward end of the launch canister; a launch mechanism for driving a UAV carried in the enclosure out of the launch canister through the launch opening in a direction substantially along said first axis; and a water surface sensor for detecting when the nose cap of the canister broaches the surface of the water; wherein the launch canister is configured to, on the water surface sensor detecting that the nose cap of the canister has broached the surface of the water, immediately release the nose cap and initiate the launch mechanism to drive a UAV carried in the enclosure out of the launch canister through the launch opening.

Abstract: A miniature torpedo has a contact and attachment assembly 106 that is operable to hold the torpedo to a ship, a plurality of flammable elements that are sequentially ignited and burn against the ship's hull, and a propulsion and steering assembly that propels and directs the torpedo to the ship. The torpedo is constructed to be carried by and launched from an unmanned aerial vehicle. A targeting and control apparatus is employed with the torpedo that provides wire guidance to the torpedo and an ability to communication with other aparatus to coordinate an attack with multiple torpedos.

Abstract: A submarine buoyant payload launcher system includes support rails extending longitudinally along an interior surface of a submarine missile capsule. A plurality of hold downs are spaced along the length of each rail and are retractable into the support rails. Once a payload is in position within the rails, the hold downs adjacent to the top end of the payload are rotated to their closed position, so as to contact the payload. Another payload can then be loaded within the rails until the payload contacts with the closed hold downs. As in the case of the first payload, the hold downs adjacent to the top end of this next payload are rotated to their closed position. Multiple payloads can be loaded within the rails in this manner.

Abstract: A system for launching an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) payload includes a launch tube, liquid rocket, and launch control assembly. The rocket is positioned in the launch tube and contains the UAV payload. A booster assembly may include a canister partially filled with liquid. A gas cylinder is filled with compressed gas. The liquid is pre-pressurized by the gas or mixed with the gas right before launch such that, upon launch, liquid and gaseous thrust stages launch the rocket to a threshold altitude. The UAV payload deploys after reaching the threshold altitude. Optional stability tubes may be connected to the launch tube, which may be buoyant for water-based operations. An optional tether may be connected to the liquid rocket for arresting its flight prior to reaching apogee. The UAV payload is not launched directly by the gas/liquid mix. A method of launching the UAV payload is also disclosed.

Abstract: A waterborne munitions system is disclosed. The system includes a submersible munitions platform and a remote control module. The munitions platform has a plurality of canistered munitions, either waterborne, airborne, or both, which can be remotely launched via the remote control module.

Abstract: A method and a device for launching an underwater moving body. In order to reduce the expenses arising from furnishing watercraft, a land supported deployment of underwater moving bodies in coastal waters using a launching device is provided with a land-based carrier system for transporting the underwater moving body and a corresponding land-based deploying system.

Abstract: A system and method for launching non-vertical launch munitions with a non-vertical launch trajectory from a launcher that is operationally coupled to a vertical launching system (VLS). The inventors of the present invention recognized that munitions that are unsuitable for vertical launches were unavailable for use with vertical launching systems, thus foreclosing important defense, attack, and cost-savings opportunities for VLS-equipped platforms. A VLS could be substantially more versatile if it accommodated munitions such as torpedoes, counter-measures, direct-fire munitions, point-and-shoot munitions, and a variety of other missiles and equipment. The launcher according to the present invention is also stowable in an upward orientation within a cell of the host vertical launching system.

Abstract: A rotating launcher system includes a plurality of rocket or missile housing tubes arranged in a circular pattern within a carousel, a set of frames, a cylindrical protective skin, an aerodynamically optimized nose cone with a bore, and an optional door covering the bore, enabling rockets or missiles to exit the launcher. The rotating launcher system may also include an aerodynamically optimized tail cone with a bore, and an optional door covering the bore, enabling exhaust from the rockets or missiles to exit the launcher. The rotating launcher system also includes an integral controller for an indexing motor, and an indexing motor enabling the bores of the nose and tail cones to align with different rockets or missiles in the carousel by either rotating the nose and tail cones, or by rotating the carousel.

Abstract: Embodiments of a method for deploying an airborne object are provided utilizing a submersible transport and launch canister of the type that includes a pressure vessel in which the airborne object is stored and a cap which sealingly engages the pressure vessel. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of positioning an end portion of the pressure vessel above the surface level of a body of water, opening the cap, and launching the airborne object from the pressure vessel while in the body of water.

Abstract: Embodiments of a submersible transport and launch canister are provided for use by a diver in the deployment of an airborne object. In one embodiment, the submersible transport and launch canister includes a pressure vessel having an open end portion and a storage cavity configured to receive the airborne object therein. A diver-actuated cap is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the diver-actuated cap sealingly engages the open end portion. A propellant device is fluidly coupled to the storage cavity and is configured to propel the airborne object from the storage cavity and through the open end portion when the propellant device is actuated by the diver.

Abstract: A multiple torpedo mine is capable of launching multiple torpedoes in water simultaneously or at predetermined intervals. The mine has an elongate container having multiple launch tubes with launch tube covers and each containing a torpedo. A programmable target detection sensor unit in the elongate container senses impinging stimuli indicative of an approaching target and generates representative target signals. A main controller in the elongate container is coupled to receive the target signals from the target detection sensor unit, and the main controller is preprogrammed to recognize targets of interest and generate appropriate launch control signals for the torpedoes. A launching system in the elongate container is coupled to the main controller and each of the launch tubes to feed high pressure gas to the base and interior of the launch tubes to launch the torpedoes into the water.

Abstract: A system includes a support structure having a compressed air tank therein, a pneumatic launch assembly coupled to the support structure, and an inflatable bladder disposed around at least a portion of a region defined by the support structure and the pneumatic launch assembly. The angle of the pneumatic launch assembly with respect to the support structure is adjustable. The pneumatic launch assembly comprises a launch tube, a compressed air manifold contained within the launch tube and in fluid connection with the compressed air tank, the compressed air manifold having an air outlet, a telescoping guide rod connected to the compressed air manifold, and a shuttle slidably coupled to the telescoping guide rod and at least partially disposed over the air outlet. The system may include a collapsible stabilizing weight coupled to the support structure, as well as communications and control circuitry within the launch tube.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for marine deployment according to various aspects of the present invention may operate in conjunction with a floatable housing adapted to be deployed by a marine vehicle. The floatable housing may be adapted to be launched from a marine vehicle and rise to the surface. Assets, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle, may be deployed from the surfaced floatable housing.

Abstract: An apparatus for sealing the barrel of an underwater gun between firings is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a magnetically-attractable water-impermeable disk. Via operation of a drive system, the disk is movable between a sealing position, wherein it prevents water from entering the barrel by moving into alignment with the first bore, and a firing position, wherein the first water-impermeable disk moves out of alignment with the first bore.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sealing the barrel of an underwater gun between firings is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a turbine that is disposed at the outlet of the muzzle of the gun. The turbine draws in water and, in various embodiments, either (a) vaporizes it, forming a vapor barrier along the spin axis that keeps water out of the barrel, (b) expels it radially, thereby re-directing it so that it does not enter the barrel, or (c) generates water jets that prevent water from entering the barrel.

Abstract: An inflatable restraint, and method of using the same, is used to provide support and shock isolation for missiles, torpedoes, missile canisters or the like in naval vessels. The inflatable restraint features a structural collar, at least one inflatable bladder and at least one interference member. The interference member is attached to the inside of the structural collar and the interference member is fully adjustable to ensure a snug fit during the loading of the missile, torpedo or missile canister into the structural collar. Once the missile, torpedo, missile canister or the like is properly inserted into the structural collar, the at least one inflatable bladder, which is also attached to the inside of the structural collar, is inflated to restrain the object. The pressure of the inflatable bladder may be regulated to provide variable spring constants and stiffness.

Abstract: A lateral support device system of a canister-launched missile of the present invention is provided for eliminating the clearances between missile and the canister in 4 places by 90 degrees interval, and therefore no relative movement occurs between the missile and the canister. Therefore, the missile and the detent is free from shocks and vibrations that occurs during the handling, transportation and operation. In addition, when the missile is fired, those lateral lock become free with a little energy loss.

Abstract: A combination sabot and launch seal is taught that is made from a single piece of molded flexible material mounted to the interior of a launch capsule. The sabot portion of the invention is defined by multiple flexible appendages that are joined together at one end in a domed shape and positioned over the nose of a missile in a launch capsule. During a launch, the appendages separate and fold back over the lip of the forward aperture of the launch capsule.

Abstract: A launch system in which an unmanned aerial vehicle is secured to a platform in a watertight tube adapted to be launched from a submerged platform. Once launched, side panels on the tube are jettisoned and a flotation device is deployed to bring the tube to the surface. The flotation device maintains the tube in a vertical position when rising to and at the surface. After surfacing, a top-sealing cap of the tube is opened. A lifting mechanism within the tube raises the vertically oriented platform assembly up within the tube. Guide rails maintain the vertical orientation of the assembly during lifting. At the topmost point of travel, the assembly is raised clear of the tube and is disengaged from the guide rails, allowing the assembly to pivot about its attachment to the lifting mechanism and assume an orientation favorable for launching the UAV.

Abstract: A steam generator missile ejection system has a vessel that contains water that becomes the pressurized steam source for missile ejection. A heating system within the vessel heats the water to steam and to the desired launch pressure. The heater is controlled to sequence operation and heat generation with a command from a controller shortly before initiation of a firing valve. A valve controls piping from the vessel to direct steam to a piping header and onto the ejection chamber of a launch tube. This event provides the launch pulse required to eject the payload from the missile tube. The launch energy requirements can be modulated by varying the pre-launch temperature of the water in the pressure vessel and can be controlled by an opening rate and length of open duration of the valve.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for pre-positioning a canister assembly at an undersea location. A transporter deploys to and releases the assembly proximate to the desired location. Once the assembly has fallen a safe distance after release, spring bands of the assembly are released by the action of lanyards of the transporter. The release allows anchor plates on each end of the assembly to separate from the assembly thereby dragging the assembly to a seafloor with the assembly buoyant at the undersea location. A vehicle deployment from the assembly is actuated by an acoustic receiver that causes a release device to release a normally compressed spring thereby allowing the spring to expand. During expansion, water is drawn into the assembly through flow ports to force a plunger plate with the water to act on a vehicle to deploy the vehicle out of a deployment tube of the assembly.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for pre-positioning a canister assembly at an undersea location. A transporter deploys to and releases the assembly proximate to the desired location. Once the assembly has fallen a safe distance after release, spring bands of the assembly are released by the action of lanyards of the transporter. The release allows anchor plates on each end of the assembly to separate from the assembly thereby dragging the assembly to a seafloor with the assembly buoyant at the undersea location. A vehicle deployment from the assembly is actuated by an acoustic receiver that causes a release device to release a normally compressed spring thereby allowing the spring to expand. During expansion, water is drawn into the assembly through flow ports to force a plunger plate with the water to act on a vehicle to deploy the vehicle out of a deployment tube of the assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a capsule sized to contain a weapon for launching and to withstand depth pressures. A telescoping nose section of the capsule, normally unextended around the weapon, extends at launch along a longitudinal axis of the capsule to provide the buoyancy used to lift the capsule out of a stored state and to ascent the capsule towards the surface. Once the surface is reached, a nose cone of the capsule is jettisoned to allow the weapon to exit the capsule.

Abstract: An umbilical cord retractor assembly and method is provided for retracting an umbilical cord from a torpedo or other vehicle prior to launching the vehicle. A guide arm is utilized to guide a slide member along a predetermined path within the guide arm. The slide is connected through a link to the umbilical cord such that the umbilical cord is pulled to a predetermined position within the launch tube out of the way of the fins, shroud, and propeller of the vehicle. Prior to activation of the retractor assembly, the slide is affixed in position within the guide arm by a lock. A spring under tension applies a force to the slide. A release cord pulls a pin from the slide to release the cord at a desired time, thereby retracting the umbilical cord to the predetermined position within the launch tube.

Abstract: A launch tube system has two concentric sleeves. An inner sleeve having holes formed therethrough defines a launch tube, and an outer sleeve surrounds the inner sleeve and is spaced apart therefrom. One or more flexible bladders are disposed between the inner outer sleeves. When filled with fluid, the flexible bladder(s) expands and extends into and through the holes and into confines of the inner sleeve to thereby form shock isolation for a projectile housed in the inner sleeve.

Abstract: A tailcone assembly for a submarine countermeasure includes a generally hemispherically shaped shell having a planar aft end and an annular open forward end. Fins are fixed to the shell equidistantly around the shell externally thereof, each of the fins having a planar outboard surface extending aft and inboard of the shell. Connector structure is on the forward end of the shell for connecting to an aft end of the countermeasure. A first aperture is disposed in a side of the shell and a cable extends from inside the shell therethrough. A second aperture extends through one of the fins and the cable extends therethrough. An opening is disposed centrally of the shell aft end, extends therethrough, and is adapted to retain a shaft assembly therein.

Abstract: A launch tube assembly including an aft launch tube portion, a forward launch tube portion, and a transfer sleeve having a first end fixed to and adjacent the forward end of said aft launch tube portion and a second end adjustably receiving the forward launch tube portion. A forward end of the aft launch tube portion faces a rearward end of the forward launch tube portion within the transfer sleeve. An adjustable plenum is present having a volume within the transfer sleeve defined by an adjusted distance between the facing ends of aft and forward launch tube portions. An end cap is pinned to a forward end of the forward launch tube portion, a gas generator housed in the aft launch tube portion, and a countermeasure device is housed in the forward launch tube portion. An adjustably selected volume of the plenum is such that a gas generated by the gas generator will enable propulsion of the countermeasure device at a predetermined acceleration from the forward launch tube portion.

Abstract: A launcher for torpedoes and underwater vehicles includes an inlet recess in fluid communication with a shutterway recess. A primary shutterway is provided both for ejection of the vehicle and for supplying fluid intake to the launcher. A pump circulates fluid from the inlet recess to the shutterway recess, and a launch tube houses a vehicle such as a weapon, within the launcher prior to launch thereof. A slide valve and impulse tank combination are positioned intermediate the pump and the launch tube, such that the slide valve controls a flow of fluid to the launch tube. A guide can is positioned at the shutterway recess for guiding the vehicle from the launch tube to an exterior of the launcher and fluid within the launcher is continually moderated to enable selective launch of the vehicle with a fluid force.

Abstract: A launch capsule assembly having a buoyant main body for a payload of a missile or other unmanned vehicle. The main body includes a plurality of lobes contributing to its interior. The lobes project perpendicular to and away from the longitudinal axis of the main body with the interior of each projecting lobe sized to accommodate at least one projecting fin of the payload. The top of the main body removably attaches to a top cap projecting hydrodynamically from the main body. The bottom of the main body removably attaches to a bottom cap machined to have a matching cross-section to the main body of the capsule.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a supply vessel for transporting a plurality of payload carrying containers having powered self-burying mechanism to enable the containers to bury themselves in the seabed when released from the vessel. Each container is connected to the vessel by an umbilical including a power supply from the vessel to the container for powering the self-burying mechanism.

Abstract: An elastomeric disk for use in an elastomeric ejection system in which a thickened curvature protrudes from both sides of a central plane of the disk. Integral to each curvature is an annulet which dovetails from the curvatures to a periphery of the disk. The thickness of the annulet in regard to the central plane is greater on the fluid pressure side of the disk thereby shifting material strain to the center of the disk during expanding deformation. The annulet shape is attachable to the elastomeric ejection system by a clamp of the system.

Abstract: An apparatus for launching an object in a fluid environment having a tubular member with a forward muzzle end, an opposed rearward end. The object is positioned in the tubular member. Ends of the tubular member are closed by expellable members. Flood valves are located on the expellable members and, on activation, allow flooding of the tubular member by external fluid. A propellant device and an object contact member are disposed within the tubular member. When the propellant device is activated, the object contact member moves the object. These actions are controlled by a control device which first causes the flood valves to enable fluid to flood the interior region. Next, the control device causes the expellable members to be expelled from the tubular member. The control device then causes the propellant device to generate gas in a predetermined manner launching the object from the tubular member.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling fluid pressure recovery includes an elongated housing having an opening at a first end thereof, an opening at a second end thereof, an inner peripheral surface, and a fluid flow passageway therethrough. The apparatus further includes a plurality of choke members fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the housing, each of the plurality of choke members being spaced from an adjacent choke member and projecting a predetermined distance into the fluid flow passageway of the longitudinal housing. The plurality of choke members sequentially produce a reduced turbulent free shear fluid layer from the first end to the second end of the elongated housing.

Abstract: The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is used in a projectile launching system to mitigate launching impact forces and to prevent ram-plate re-strike during launch. The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is detachably coupled to the projectile using break-away fasteners that allow the ram-plate to be attached to the projectile during launch and detached from the projectile at the end of the launch. One embodiment of the detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is a single impact, viscous fluid ram-plate including a cylinder, a perforated piston, and a viscous fluid disposed between the cylinder and the perforated piston. Upon receiving a high initial launch impact force, the piston compresses causing the viscous fluid to be forced through the perforated piston, thereby absorbing the shock of the initial launching impact force. Another embodiment of the detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is a gas spring ram-plate having a cylinder and piston that compresses a gas to absorb shock caused by launching forces.

Abstract: A launching apparatus including a launch tube having fore and aft ends, each end having an opening formed therein. A muzzle cap is fitted to the fore end and a breech mounting is formed at the aft end. A primary housing is seated in the aft end, the primary housing having fore and aft ends. A first telescoping cylinder containing a first telescoping piston is positioned within the fore end of the housing and a second telescoping cylinder containing a second telescoping piston is positioned within the aft end of the housing. A ram plate and a breech mounting are connected to the first and second pistons respectively. A gas generator is provided within the housing and a projectile is seated between the ram plate and muzzle cap. The first and second cylinders and the first and second pistons expand from the housing and propel the projectile.

Abstract: A launching apparatus including a launch tube having a fore end and an aft end, each end having an opening formed therein. A muzzle cap is fit to the fore end of the launch tube and a breech mounting is formed at the aft end of the launch tube. A primary plenum housing is seated in the aft end of the launch tube, the primary housing having a fore end and an aft end. A first telescoping cylinder is initially positioned within the fore end of the primary housing and a second telescoping cylinder is initially positioned within the aft end of the primary housing. A first telescoping piston is formed in the first telescoping cylinder and a second telescoping piston formed in the second telescoping cylinder. A ram plate is connected to the first telescoping piston and the second telescoping piston is connected to the breech mounting. A gas generator is provided within said primary housing and a projectile is seated between the ram plate and the muzzle cap.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for remote surface fire support. The remote surface fire support system of the present invention is designed to operate close to shore. The system is adapted to be deployed by a variety of means and remains concealed beneath the water's surface until it is to be launched. The system includes a plurality of munitions containers which can be deployed by submarines, surface ships or aircraft. The munitions containers each carry a guided munition which can be controlled by a networked fire control system such as NFCS.

Abstract: A marine countermeasures launch assembly includes a cylindrical body including first and second members having, respectively, first and second surfaces engageable with each other to form the body, the first surface having first and second recesses therein, the second surface having first and second recesses therein opposed to the recesses of the first member when the members are engaged, to form a first chamber for retaining a first countermeasure and a second chamber for retaining a second countermeasure. The first and second surfaces have opposed bores therein. A spring is disposed in each pair of the opposed bores and urges the members to separate from each other to release the countermeasures after the assembly is launched.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for remote surface fire support. The remote surface fire support system of the present invention is designed to operate close to shore. The system is adapted to be deployed by a variety of means and remains concealed beneath the water's surface until it is to be launched. The system includes a plurality of munitions containers which can be deployed by submarines, surface ships or aircraft. The munitions containers each carry a guided munition which can be controlled by a networked fire control system such as NFCS.

Abstract: A Submarine Horizontal Launch TACTOM Capsule (SHLTC) provides the capability for launching a Tactical Tomahawk (TACTOM) cruise missile from a horizontal torpedo tube on a submarine. The SHLTC completely encapsulates the TACTOM missile in the torpedo tube and is ejected from the torpedo tube with the TACTOM missile during launch. The SHLTC contains the TACTOM missile in a closure assembly to protect the TACTOM missile from damage. Following safe exit from the submarine, thrust from the rocket motor allows the TACTOM missile to break through a forward tearing shell of the SHLTC. The TACTOM missile and SHLTC completely de-couple and the SHLTC safely sinks away from the submarine and missile. The TACTOM missile continues up to broach the surface and transition to cruise mode.

Abstract: A retrofitable breech is disclosed for use on existing tubes for launching vehicles, such as torpedoes. The breech utilizes gas generators such as commercial off the shelf automotive airbag inflators, for propelling the torpedo from the tube. A plurality, typically three or four, generators are used and are fired in sequence with a controlled time delay. A retrofitable device is also disclosed for activating the weapons securing mechanism to release the torpedo. In addition, a release mechanism is disclosed for pulling the electrical connector plug on the torpedo. The sequence of releasing the torpedo, retraction of the plug and firing the inflators is controlled by a controller upon initiation of the firing sequence.

Abstract: The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is used in a projectile launching system to mitigate launching impact forces and to prevent ram-plate re-strike during launch. The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is detachably coupled to the projectile using break-away fasteners that allow the ram-plate to be attached to the projectile during launch and detached from the projectile at the end of the launch. One embodiment of the detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is a single impact, viscous fluid ram-plate including a cylinder, a perforated piston, and a viscous fluid disposed between the cylinder and the perforated piston. Upon receiving a high initial launch impact force, the piston compresses causing the viscous fluid to be forced through the perforated piston, thereby absorbing the shock of the initial launching impact force.

Abstract: A vehicle launch assembly for underwater platforms includes a water tank mounted on the platform, and a plunger movably disposed in the tank and dividing the tank into first and second zones, the first zone being in communication with a. water environment in which the platform is disposed, and the second zone being in communication with a launch tube inlet line mounted on the platform. An actuator is connected to the plunger and is operable to move the plunger in the tank. A triggering device initiates operation of the actuator, moving the plunger in the tank to push water from the tank second zone to the launch tube inlet line to eject a vehicle from the launch tube, or moving the plunger to enlarge the tank second zone to draw water thereinto from a valve in communication with the water environment and the tank.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an enclosure for installation in the seabed comprising an elongate container for holding a payload. The container has a plurality of passages extending lengthwise of the container and an impeller at the lower end of the container for drawing water through at least one or said passages to form a slurry with the material of the seabed and for discharging the slurry at the upper end of the container into the surrounding water. The enclosure has inner and outer concentric passageways extending lengthwise thereof and said impeller has a blade or blades extending across the inner and outer passageways. The blade of the impeller has a first portion pitched to draw water down one of the passageways to the lower end of the container and a second portion pitched to discharge slurry up the other of the passageways to the top of the container.

Abstract: The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is used in a projectile launching system to mitigate launching impact forces and to prevent ram-plate re-strike during launch. The detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is detachably coupled to the projectile using break-away fasteners that allow the ram-plate to be attached to the projectile during launch and detached from the projectile at the end of the launch. One embodiment of the detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is a single impact, viscous fluid ram-plate including a cylinder, a perforated piston, and a viscous fluid disposed between the cylinder and the perforated piston. Upon receiving a high initial launch impact force, the piston compresses causing the viscous fluid to be forced through the perforated piston, thereby absorbing the shock of the initial launching impact force. Another embodiment of the detachable shock-absorbing ram-plate is a gas spring ram-plate having a cylinder and piston that compresses a gas to absorb shock caused by launching forces.

Abstract: A missile support and alignment assembly for use on a moving vehicle having a fixed missile launch tube mounted thereon. The assembly comprises a missile support assembly including (i) a loading tray for supporting a missile, (ii) a storage structure for supporting the loading tray, and (iii) mounts resiliently connecting the storage structure to the vehicle.

Abstract: A system for boosting the velocity of a rocket utilizing a container having a bottom and a side wall portion extending outwardly from the bottom. The side portion terminates in a peripheral edge and forms a chamber. A platform is supported in the chamber and is movable from a first position to a second position adjacent the peripheral edge of the side wall portion of the container. Exhaust gases are conducted to the chamber such that movement of the platform within the container supporting the rocket takes place.

Abstract: An appended pod underwater gun mount for a submersible host vessel includes a strut member having a base end fixed to an outer hull of the submersible host vessel and a distal end protruding outwardly from the host vessel, the distal end being angled with respect to the base end, and an ammunition housing moveably fixed to the distal end of the strut member. A train control mechanism is positioned between the strut member and the ammunition housing for controlling the horizontal rotation of the ammunition housing with respect to the host vessel, and a tilt control mechanism is positioned between the strut member and the ammunition housing for controlling the vertical rotation of the ammunition housing with respect to the host vessel. A flexible boot is connected to the ammunition housing and surrounds each of the train control mechanism and the tilt control mechanism to protect the mechanisms from an underwater environment.