Submunition and cluster munition containing submunitions

摘要

A cluster munition may include a plurality of submunitions that are ejected from a delivery vehicle. Each submunition is single target discriminating and includes electronic self-destruct and self-deactivate capability. Each submunition includes a microprocessor and a wireless communication device connected to the microprocessor. Each submunition includes a deployable antenna/stabilizer that functions as an antenna for the wireless communication device and as a stabilizer to stabilize the descent of the submunition. Optionally, the deployable antenna/stabilizer may also facilitate ejection of the submunition from the delivery vehicle. The submunitions may wirelessly communicate with each other and with other entities.

主权项

1. A submunition comprising:
a submunition body including explosive material therein; a deployable antenna/stabilizer attached to the submunition body, the deployable antenna/stabilizer having a first end attached to the submunition body and a second end opposite the first end wherein, in a deployed state, the second end is distal the submunition body; a wireless communication device disposed on the submunition, the wireless communication device being electrically connected to the deployable antenna/stabilizer; a microprocessor disposed on the submunition, the microprocessor being electrically connected to the wireless communication device; means for determining a relative location of the submunition, the means for determining the relative location being electrically connected to the microprocessor; and a multi-mode fuze disposed on the submunition, the multi-mode fuze being electrically connected to the microprocessor, the multi-mode fuze including at least two of: (a) a proximity fuze for detonating the submunition in a selected proximity of the submunition to a target; (b) a point detonating fuze for detonating the submunition when contacting a target; and (c) a timer-based fuze for detonating the submunition after a selected time has elapsed, wherein the deployable antenna/stabilizer comprises at least one of a coil, a foldable flat spring and a drogue chute.