This figure illustrates theoretical ranges to be achieved with different missile throw-weights; no other variables (e.g., engine burn time, propellant loads) have been changed. One should note the following:
1. Range increases via a reduction in warhead mass cause a number of difficulties that should not be overlooked. Most importantly, a warhead mass reduction--and thus a lighter front section--will cause stability problems due to changes in the missile's center of gravity. Moreover, any significant change in the warhead mass would require the generation of a new firing table; this, in turn, would require a small number (perhaps 5-10) of additional flight tests.
2. The theoretical ballistic tendency for warhead mass and range may have little technical or operational meaning. In other words, a zero payload flight or, say, half payload flight is exceedingly unlikely without major modifications to the missile.
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Updated April 2003 |
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