LAU-10 Rocket Launcher
The 5.0 Inch Rocket System uses the four round LAU-10C/A (shore-based use only) and LAU-10D/A (shore-based or shipboard use) rocket launchers. The LAU-10C/A and LAU-10D/A launchers can be fired in single or ripple mode. The difference between the LAU-10C/A and LAU-10D/A reusable rocket launchers is the external thermal coating on the LAU-10D/A that greatly prolongs cook-off protection time. Full production of these launchers began in September 1973.
The 5.0 Inch Rocket launchers are a cylindrical construction of four aluminum launch tubes. These launch tubes are held together with metal ribs and are covered by an aluminum skin. Launchers can be fitted with forward and aft frangible fairings depending on overall rocket length and fuzing for airborne configuration.
The launchers are mated mechanically to the aircraft by way of suspension lugs. The 5.0 Inch Rocket launchers use either a 14 inch or 30 inch suspension. Electrical connection between the aircraft and the launcher is made through an electrical receptacle located on top of the launcher center section to the aircraft’s 28 volt armament circuit. The launchers may be shipped and stored pre-loaded with rocket motors.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ac/equip/lau-10.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, January 09, 1999 10:27:01 AM