Mortar shell ring tail and associated method

摘要

There is provided a ring tail for a ballistic projectile and an associated method that facilitate maneuverability of the ballistic projectile. The ring tail comprises a ring member having a generally cylindrical wall and at least one rod joined to an aft section of the ballistic projectile and the ring member. The rod defines an adjustable length, wherein an actuation device joined to the at least one rod adjusts the length to thereby maneuver the ballistic projectile during flight. The ring tail may include generally radially oriented panels and may also include a second ring member joined to the distal ends of the panels such that the ring members are coaxial. Once the projectile has been launched, the ring member extends aftward to provide aerodynamic stability, which may be measured by a guidance sensor in electronic communication with the actuation device that adjusts the length of the at least one rod.