LAU-7/A (SERIES) GUIDED
MISSILE LAUNCHER
The LAU-7/A (series) guided missile launcher (fig,
3-18) is a reusable launcher that provides a complete
launching system for use with the AIM-9 Sidewinder
(series) missiles.
The launcher (fig. 3-18) has four
major assemblies—the housing assembly, nitrogen
receiver assembly, mechanism assembly, and power
supply.
Housing Assembly
The housing assembly is the main structural
member of the launcher. It is an extruded, machined
aluminum member that provides structural rigidity to
the launcher and includes provisions for mounting all
other assemblies. It also includes provisions for
mounting the launcher to the aircraft.
Nitrogen Receiver Assembly
The nitrogen receiver assembly stores the
high-pressure nitrogen (3,200 psig) used to cool the
missile’s IR detector in the guidance system. Two
nitrogen receiver assemblies are available for use with
the launcher. One is a cylindrical fiber glass container
with a corrosion-resistant metal liner, and the other is a
plain cylindrical steel container. The receiver mounts in
the aft section of the housing assembly and screws into
the aft end of the mechanism assembly. All receivers
contain a charging valve (for refilling), relief valve, and
a pressure indicator mounted in the aft end of the
cylinder. The pressure indicator is color coded to ensure
correct readings as follows:
Red
0 to 2.2 psi
Yellow
2.2 to 2.8 psi
Green
2.8 to 3.5 psi
White
3.5 to 5 psi
All readings listed must be multiplied by 1,000 psi.
Mechanism Assembly
The mechanism assembly is an electromechanical
device that holds the missile for takeoffs and landings
and releases the missile for launching. It mounts in the
center of the housing assembly forward of the receiver
assembly.
The subassemblies of the mechanism
assembly are discussed in the following paragraphs.
ELECTRICAL HARNESS ASSEMBLY.— The
electrical harness assembly consists of the appropriate
connectors and wiring to interconnect between the
aircraft power and firing circuits and the launcher. Also,
REVIEW NUMBER 5 ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS Q1. THROUGH Q8.
A1.
A2.
A3.
A4.
AS.
A6.
A7.
A8.
The four basic series of Walleye guided weapon systems are the Walleye I, Walleye I
EDRL, Walleye II, and Walleye II ERDL.
The sections of the Walleye I tactical weapon include the guidance section,
warhead section, control section, four wings, and four fins.
When the Walleye I is used, a typical attack situation is formed by the weapon,
pilot, and aircraft performing as a complete weapons system
The Walleye II has a 30-inch suspension.
The Walleye I and Walleye II weapons are basically the same; however, the
Walleye II is physically larger and has improved electronics.
The Walleye II ERDL has added data link functions and extended range capability.
The data-link pod provides the communications link between the pilot and
weapon.
Three frequency channels (A, C, and E) prevent the control section of one weapon
from responding to commands not set to its channel.
3-22
