suspension and launching system for the AIM-7
Sparrow missile. The launchers are mounted internally
in the fuselage structure. They are self-contained,
gas-operated mechanisms, capable of suspending and
ejecting the AIM-7 Sparrow missile. Two CCU-45
impulse cartridges ignited by an electrical impulse
applied by the missile-firing switch, supply ejection
force. The rapidly expanding gases actuate the ejector
pistons and release the missile from the launcher.
Power is applied to the missile guidance control system
through the umbilical plug. An actuator-operated safety
device prevents inadvertent firing of launcher
cartridges.
LAU-117/A GUIDED MISSILE LAUNCHER
The LAU-117/A guided missile launcher (fig.
3-23) is a reusable launcher that completes the F/A-18
aircraft suspension and launching system for the
Maverick, AGM-65, air-to-ground missile. The
mechanical structure of the launcher is built around a
box-section channel or rail, which supports the missile.
The missile hooks contact the rail surfaces or tracks,
which are hard, anodized metal treated with a dry
lubricant. Two lug fittings and lugs provide mechanical
interface with the bomb rack. The two lug fittings
provide smooth surfaces for the bomb rack sway
braces. The missile restraint device is recessed into the
rail channel between the lug fittings. A stop on one side
of the rail track engages the missile aft hook to prevent
damage to the umbilical connector during loading. The
rear of the rail channel provides mounting for the
launcher electronic assembly and the umbilical
engaging assembly. The launcher electronic assembly
houses all electronic circuitry. Fairings at the front of
the rail and the rear of the launcher electronic assembly
provide aerodynamic surfaces. Special brackets and
bushings are provided for the Navy's single hoist
ordnance loading system. The launcher can be
suspended from the BRU-32 bomb rack on the inboard
and outboard pylons. An electrically operated safety
device prevents inadvertent loss of the missile.
LAU-118/A GUIDED MISSILE LAUNCHER
The LAU-118/A guided missile launcher (fig.
3-24) is a reusable launcher that completes the F/A-18
and EA6B aircraft suspension and launching system for
the HARM, AGM-88, air-to-ground guided missile.
The launcher consists of the launcher housing, forward
and aft fairing assemblies, forward and aft launcher
tracks, suspension lugs, insert plugs, and internal
electrical components. The launcher is a structurally
modified Aero 5B-1. The LAU-118/A is suspended
from the BRU-32 bomb rack on the inboard and
outboard pylons. An electrically operated retention
mechanism prevents inadvertent loss of the missile.
LAU-92/A GUIDED MISSILE LAUNCHER
The LAU-92/A guided missile launcher (fig. 3-25)
carries and launches the AIM-7 (series) Sparrow
guided missile on the F-14 aircraft. The launcher is
installed in semisubmerged fuselage stations 3, 4, 5,
3-26
Figure 3-23.—LAU-117/A guided missile launcher.
