Velocity controller for ramjet missile and method therefor

A velocity controller for a ramjet missile, having a supersonic inlet proximate the peripheral skin thereof for admitting air to a combustion zone of a ramjet engine, is comprised of a variable pitch cover disposed in pivotable engagement within the inlet and an actuator in operative engagement with the cover for adjustably positioning same over an angular range and thereby modulating airflow for the purpose of controlling flight characteristics and, principally, velocity of the missile. A sensing system is provided for detecting a dynamic flight parameter indicative of velocity of the missile and generating an output characteristic thereof for controlling the actuator and, in turn, the pitch of the cover. Methods for improving the flight performance of both solid fuel ramjet missiles and ducted rocket missiles are also disclosed herein.