Lightning strike susceptibility tests on the AIM-9 missile
Abstract
Lightning strike susceptibility tests were conducted on AIM-9 missile forward sections to evaluate possible interface problems with the F16 aircraft. High voltage attachment, streamering and high current arc tests were performed using the specialized test facilities and instrumentation of the Air Force Flight Dynamics Laboratory. It was experimentally determined that the optical dome/zinc-coated fiberglass interface at the forward end is the most probable attachment point to the AIM-9 missile. The optical dome was found to be highly vulnerable to direct lightning strikes but there is no evidence that lightning will penetrate the F-16 aircraft via the AIM-9 missiles. The operational status of the AIM-9 missile subsequent to a direct lightning strike is suspect; however, complete evaluation of this subject was beyond the scope of the program.
- Publication:
-
Final Report
- Pub Date:
- August 1978
- Bibcode:
- 1978affd.rept.....M
- Keywords:
-
- Aircraft Safety;
- F-16 Aircraft;
- Lightning;
- Sidewinder Missiles;
- Air To Air Missiles;
- Electric Discharges;
- Flight Tests;
- High Voltages;
- Electronics and Electrical Engineering