Lethality of the Bar Fragment Type of Warhead.

摘要

This note contains a brief preliminary theoretical assessment of the lethality of a bar fragmenting warhead, with particular reference to the air-to- air attack of a Superfortress (B.29). Comparisons have been drawn between the effectiveness of the bar fragmenting warhead and the controlled fragmentation type. The accuracy of the guidance system has been considered in relation to the chances of hitting the target. A 'constant distance' type of fuze has been assumed to be used for producing detonation, its performance being examined to determine the most effective burst distances and the degree of sensitivity required of such a fuze. Finally the factors likely to reduce the chance of hitting during the unguided flight of the bars towards the target after detonation have been analysed and an estimate made of their importance.