Aeroballistic Range Tests of the Basic Finner Reference Projectile at Supersonic Velocities

Abstract : Free-flight tests were conducted in the Defence Research Establishment Valcartier (DREV) Aero ballistic Range on the Basic Finner reference projectile from transonic to high supersonic velocities. The projectile consisted of four rectangular fins on a cone-cylinder body with a total length-to-diameter ratio of 10.0. Fin cants of 0 deg, 2 deg and 4 deg were imposed. The Mach number range tested was between 1.0 and 4.5. All the main aerodynamic coefficients and stability derivatives were well determined using linear theory, six-degree-of-freedom single- and multiple-fit reductions techniques. The results were also compared with results from other aeroballistic ranges. The fins on the models fired at Mach 4.5 ablated during flight. A dynamic stability analysis showed a Magnus instability at certain Mach numbers and spin rates.