ATK (Alliant Techsystems)
recently demonstrated a flightweight rocket motor for the Compact
Kinetic Energy Missile (CKEM) program. The test was conducted at ATK’s
Tactical Systems Company facility in Rocket Center, W. Va.
John Shroyer, president, ATK Tactical Systems, said the CKEM test achieved
two major milestones. “The ATK designated GIB propellant used in the test is
a significant leap forward in technology for high energy propellants. It
enhances performance by as much as eight percent over current minimum
signature propellants.” Shroyer added, “The mechanical properties and
producibility of this propellant are excellent.”
The second milestone demonstrated by the test was the ability of both the
composite case and the nozzle assembly to withstand high internal pressures.
“The static firing, structural testing and hydroproof testing provided
conclusive evidence that the new motor is sound and ready to fulfill its
mission on the CKEM,” said Shroyer
ATK is performing the Compact Kinetic Energy Missile program under
contract to the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command Propulsion and
Structures Directorate at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala. The program
objective is to provide a lightweight, hypervelocity propulsion system capable
of meeting the demanding requirements of the CKEM missile system.
ATK is a $2.2 billion aerospace and defense company with strong positions
in propulsion, composite structures, munitions, precision capabilities, and
civil and sporting ammunition. The company, which is headquartered in Edina,
Minn., employs approximately 12,500 people and has three business groups:
Precision Systems, Aerospace, and Ammunition and Related Products. ATK news
and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.
