5.0-Inch FFAR
AIRCRAFT ROCKET
LAUNCHERS
Like the 2.75-inch rocket, the 5.0-inch FFAR (fig.
2-25) can be assembled in various warhead and fuze
combinations. The Mk 71 motor gives the additional
advantage of one motor for all launch-speed
applications.
The 5.0-inch rocket is carried and launched from
multiple-round launchers. Because of their large size
and weight, the number of rounds per launcher is
reduced to four. The 5.0-inch rockets are received
through the supply system in the following two
configurations:
1. Rocket motors in a 4-round launcher and fuzes
and warheads in separate shipping containers
NOTE: The Mk 191, Mk 193, and Model 113A
fuzes are permanently installed in the warheads.
2. Separate components in separate shipping
Q1.
Q2.
containers
REVIEW NUMBER 4
What is the usual configuration of the 2.75-inch
airborne rocket ?
Aboard ship, who assembles rocket components
for current operations?
A1.
A2.
A3.
A4.
A5.
A6.
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Recognize the
shipping configuration for aircraft rocket
launchers and identify common aircraft rocket
launcher components.
Aircraft rocket launchers (pods) carry and provide
a platform to fire rockets. Launcher design permits
multiple loading and launching of 2.75-inch and
5.0-inch rockets. Rocket pods let rocket motors (and, in
some cases, completely assembled rounds) stay in the
same container from their manufacture, through
stowage, to their final firing.
Aircraft rocket launchers are classified as either
2.75-inch or 5.0-inch. They may be further classified as
either reusable or nonreusable. Launcher tubes that are
constructed of metal are considered reusable and are
usually returned for reloading. Under certain
conditions, they may be jettisoned at the pilot’s
discretion. Launcher tubes constructed of paper
material are designed for onetime use only, and are
jettisoned by the pilot after use.
The 2.75-inch rocket launchers currently in use
are the LAU-61A/A, LAU-61B/A, LAU-61C/A,
LAU-68B/A, and the LAU-68D/A. Characteristics
and specifications for these launchers are listed in
REVIEW NUMBER 3 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS Q1. THROUGH Q6.
When classified by their mode of operation, fuzes are classified as impact firing,
mechanical time, acceleration-deceleration, or proximity.
Impact-firing fuzes function when the rocket strikes the target that offers enough
resistance to cause actuation of the parts.
The two types of impact firing fuzes are the nose detonating and base detonating
types.
Upon arming, the mechanical timer starts, and after a set time, the mechanical
time fuze initiates the firing train.
In acceleration-deceleration fuzes, deceleration causes the fuze to function.
Proximity fuzes sense, usually by electronic means, the presence and distance of
a target.
2-20
