2.75-INCH (SERIES) LAUNCHERS

The 2.75-inch (series) launchers are intended for shipping (in some cases with warheads installed), stowing, and firing the 2.75-inch rockets. The weight of loaded launchers varies, depending upon the number of rockets installed and rocket configuration.

The rockets are retained in the launcher tubes during shipping, handling, and flight by engagement of a leaf-spring type of detent with integral blast paddles (fig. 2-33). During loading, the rocket motor depresses the detent until the detent snaps into the detent grooves located on the aft end of the motor. To remove rocket motors, use a rocket loading and release tool to depress the detent. A spring-loaded firing contact (fig. 2-34) is located in the end of each tube.

The principles of operation for the 2.75-inch launcher are basically the same as the 5.0-inch launcher. The 2.75-inch launcher can be loaded with less than 7 or 19 rockets when tactical requirements exist. However, you should refer to the specific tactical manual and aircraft loading manual. Also, since the rockets are fired in a definite sequence, the rockets must

be loaded into the launcher tubes in the proper sequence. Airborne rocket loading procedures, including electrical test procedures, are covered later in this manual.

Figure 2-33.-Rocket launcher detent (2.75-inch).

Figure 2-34.-Launcher firing contact assembly (2.75-inch launcher).