Figure 1-24.—Arming wire assemblies.
general-purpose bombs currently being used aboard
ships are required to be thermally protected. Thermally
protected Mk 80 series bombs can be identified by the
words THERMALLY PROTECTED in the
identification legend, a bumpy exterior surface, and two
yellow bands around the nose.
ARMING WIRE ASSEMBLIES
Arming wire assemblies (fig. 1-24) are used for
arming procedures during ordnance evolutions. The
primary function of arming wire assemblies is to
maintain ordnance components in a safe condition until
actual release of the bomb from the aircraft.
Normally, the wires consist of one or two brass or
steel metal strands attached to a swivel loop. Safety
Fahnstock clips (fig. 1-24) or safety clips, MAU
166/182, are attached to the ends of the arming wires
after installation. They prevent premature or accidental
withdrawal of the arming wires from the component.
NOTE: Safety clips are used vice Fahnstock
clips unless otherwise specified.
Normally, arming wire assemblies are shipped in
spiral-wound fiber tubes, overpacked in a wooden box.
Generally, the safety Fahnstock clips are packed in the
tubes with the arming wires. The most commonly used
arming wire assemblies are listed in table 1-3.
Arming wire installation procedures are discussed
in the TRAMAN where the use of arming wire
assemblies is required.
FIN ASSEMBLIES
Fin assemblies, used with the Mk 80 (series) LDGP
bombs, provide stability to the bomb. They cause the
bomb to fall in a smooth, definite curve to the target,
instead of tumbling through the air.
The fin assemblies, except the MAU-91A/B, are
shipped on metal pallets. Each individual fin is crated
Table 1-3.—Arming Wire Data
1-27
