The Anti-Aircraft Target Rocket M2 was a 3.25-inch (83 mm) rocket developed and used by the United States Army during World War II. It was designed to serve as a training target for anti-aircraft guns, capable of simulating attacks by low-flying aircraft.[1][2] The nosecone of the rocket was ogival,[1] and it was fitted with oversized fins to aid in tracking of the rocket by trainees.[1][3]
| M2 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Anti-aircraft target rocket |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| Used by | United States Army |
| Specifications (M2) | |
| Mass | 35.1 lb (15.9 kg) |
| Length | 4 ft 11.1 in (150.1 cm) |
| Diameter | 3.25 in (83 mm) |
| Engine | Solid-fuel rocket |
| Propellant | solvent extruded double base powder |
Operational range | 1,700 yd (0.97 mi; 1.6 km) |
| Boost time | 0.25 sec |
| Maximum speed | 560 ft/s (380 mph; 610 km/h) |
Guidance system | None |
Shipped with two to three rockets in a package, the Target Rocket Projector M1 was used for the rocket's launching platform.[2] It consisted of a set of launching rails on a two-wheeled trailer and weighed 750 pounds (340 kg);[4] capable of being elevated to 60 degrees,[4] it allowed the rocket to be launched at random angles and directions to increase the effectiveness of the training exercises,[1] and could fire up to two rounds per minute.[4] A modification of the basic rocket, designated as the Anti-Aircraft Training Rocket M2A1, replaced the basic M2 in service; it added a flare that ignited on launch to aid in visual tracking of the target that burned for approximately 30 seconds after launch.[5]
References
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