Launcher Improvement for Illumination System Flare, Surface: Parachute XM183

The objective of this nine-month program was to improve the present feasibility model launcher for mass production. In addition, design features such as flare package retention and positive locking were to be investigated. To assure system reliability, a method of verifying these objectives was required. During the course of this program, a development approach and test plan was generated and approved for engineering activities. A verification test fixture was designed and constructed to simulate impact type loading on a launcher. Experimental and production type launcher systems can be subjected to peak recoil conditions of 1600 lb for 5 msec through three firing elevations.