| Abstract |
In April 1991 the Short Range Attack Missile (SRAM) System Program Office (SPO) verbally requested that Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) conduct a study of alternate configurations for the AGM-69/SRAM A. SNL presented preliminary results of the design study approximately 60 days later. The study was terminated by the SRAM SPO before completion. This report documents the preliminary work accomplished. Based on limited and incomplete analysis, the study concluded that it may be possible to design and build a modernized version of the SRAM A missile that keeps the existing external shape while incorporating a new rocket motor, new electronics, and new warheads. Range and performance, however, are believed to be at risk. Based on limited investigation, it appears that the new rocket motor would require a higher risk development than being considered for the preliminary ASRAM design. The new rocket motor would occupy less volume (4--6% less) and may need to have slightly more dense propellant than the SRAM A to compensate for the nose-heavy configuration layout and likely missile energy requirements. As stated, the alternate configuration results in a 4--6% reduction from the SRAM A propellant volume. This reduction is needed to incorporate the upgraded electronic payload that features: a new radar fuze; Global Position System (GPS); inertial navigation; computer; avionics; and larger, modern warheads. Another recognized risk area in the design of a modernized SRAM A missile is the electronic fin actuator (which, in the SNL design, replaces the hydraulic actuator) and its influence on the rocket motor nozzle and/or propellant volume. Despite the above-cited risks, and given reasonable design success of the motor and actuators, it was estimated that this configuration could approach the range and performance of the AGM-69/SRAM A. With the initial, more conservative design assumptions (i.e., the ASRAM motor), a decrease in range is estimated. 1 ref., 3 figs., 1 tab. |
