Simulation of Weapons Release from Cargo Aircraft

The purpose of this study is to develop a computer simulation capable of providing an accurate flight history of an air-dropped munitions dispenser system in order to conduct proof of concept testing. The simulation is intended to serve as an adaptable tool for the development and testing of any cargo aircraft based weapons dispenser system. The simulation allows the user to conduct low-cost, time efficient, and effective tests of various design concepts in determining their operational feasibility and performance envelope. The munitions dispenser system is intended to provide a retrofit combat capability to the USAF C-17 aircraft, delivering massive amounts of precision guided ordnance where needed, when needed, while remaining outside the threat envelope. The dispenser concept was developed and modified through use of the simulation by determining the most favorable parachute system, harness configuration, and munition release sequence which ensure the desired behavior and performance of the twenty-munition dispenser system. The developed dispenser system was subjected to various adverse flight conditions, disturbances, and system malfunctions to determine the dispensers reaction to such inputs. Overall, the developed dispenser configuration has proven to be a viable weapons release platform for a cargo aircraft.