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Radius Enhanced Warheads
Abstract
The novel concept of the RADIUS technology, an acronym for Range Adaptable Device Incorporating Unique Scaling, is unique in the way performed by TDW. The control of warhead output can be achieved within a compact fuzing system incorporating two pyrotechnical outputs: one output is used for initiating a classical detonation and the other one for initiating a distinctive subdetonative mechanism. Such an enhanced weapon with a discrete number of output modes allows scaling of blast / fragmentation effects and respective lethal and collateral damages footprints against surface targets. RADIUS technology prototypes based on a 500 lb (MK-82 / BLU-111) precisionguided bomb recently demonstrated their minimum and maximum output modes against a comprehensive target set consisting of various witness panels and SUV cars. These tests were conducted jointly with BAE Systems, Munitions. The different outputs and their resulting level of damages can be clearly observed. High-speed video sequences of the subdetonative reactions leading to regular fractures of the bomb casing suggest a highly controlled and repeatable underlying process. This was also modeled utilizing Lee-Tarver’s extended Ignition and Growth model with a single robust parameter set reproducing well different charge dimensions. Vulnerability / lethality assessments for various output modes of a 500 lb precisionguided bomb were conducted to demonstrate these new operational capabilities in joint fire support simulations and in a realistic urban environment. Implementing this technology into a variety of bombs or missile warheads for surface attacks will allow cost-effective solutions through the life cycle, since the mix of weapon types can be reduced and so does the integration effort into weapon systems / platforms as well as logistical constraints.