AIM-7 Sparrow

AN/AWW-14(V)

ACCESS: Granted
Senior Member
Joined
18 May 2019
Messages
636
Reaction score
1,564
The original Navy air-to-air missile program began near the end of World War II when BuAer advanced the concept of a beam-riding 5-in (13-cm) high-velocity aircraft rocket (HVAR). With this type of guidance system the launching aircraft illuminated the target with radar and the missile simply attempted to stay in the center of the radar beam. In May 1946, under Project Hot Shot, Sperry Gyroscope Co. of Bristol, TN, was asked to submit a proposal for a missile based on the HVAR with a range between 1,000 and 6,000 ft (305 and 1830 m) and fast enough to overtake a Mach 1.0 target.

The following March, Sperry reported that the HVAR's 5-in (13-cm) diameter was too small to accommodate the design requirements. An 8-in (20-cm) diameter missile body was recommended, a standard which was maintained for the entire Sparrow family. Douglas Aircraft Co. was subcontracted to produce the airframe while Sperry concentrated on guidance. The development contract was signed in May 1947, with project being named Sparrow in July. Unpowered separation testing began at Pt Mugu in January 1948.

In January 1951 the Navy placed an advance order for 1,000 Sparrow Is, officially designated air-to-air missile-Navy (AAM-N)-2. In September 1952 Sparrow became the first project of the newly established VX-4 of the Naval Air Missile Test Center at Pt Mugu CA.

In 1955, nearly 10 years after development began, VA-83, equipped with the F7U-3M Cutlass, became the first squadron to receive the new missile. Fleet service began in 1956 with deliveries to F3D-1M Skynight, F3H-2M Demon, and other F7U-3M squadrons. However, the 140-in (355-cm) long Sparrow I's beam-riding design lacked a true all-weather capability because its APG-51 guidance radar required visual identification of the target. Eventually, the entire concept was abandoned, with the last of 2,000 of the 310-lb Sparrow Is being delivered in April 1957. In 1962, after it was out of service, Sparrow I was redesignated AIM-7A.

The AAM-N-3 Sparrow II was another Douglas project, but featured a completely different guidance system with an active radar seeker. This increased the missile's length to 144 in (365 cm), which set the standard for all subsequent Sparrows. It was designed originally for the F5D Skylancer, but when that program was canceled in 1956 it was taken over by the Canadian government for their CF-105 Arrow, but that, too, was canceled in 1959. The 420-lb missile was belatedly redesignated AIM-7B in 1962.

The genesis of ultimate Raytheon 500-lb class AIM-7 Sparrow began in 1951 with their 380-lb AAM-N-6 Sparrow III. In reality, this was a completely new missile that featured SARH guidance behind a 'tangent ogive' radome, a 65-lb continuous-rod warhead, and a solid fuel rocket motor. The first guided launch occurred in February 1953, and it replaced the Sparrow I in production in 1956. (Although successfully tested in 1957, an infra-red guided version was canceled.) Reaching the fleet in August 1958, about 2,000 were produced to arm the F3H-2M Demon. The USAF had designated the Sparrow III as the AIM-101 prior to 1962, when the joint designation system redesignated it the AIM-7C.

The 440-lb AAM-N-6A Sparrow IIIA replaced the AAM-N-6 in production during 1959. It was the first Sparrow to supplement earlier rail launchers with an ejector launch capability. Its performance was increased by a limited proximity fuzing capability, enabling head-on intercepts, and a rocket motor which permitted supersonic launches and increased range. It was redesignated the AIM-7D in 1962, with 7,500 being produced to arm the F4H-1 and F-110A Phantom II.

The AIM-7E Sparrow IIIB entered production in 1963 and incorporated a new 7,600-lb thrust (33.81-kN), 2.9-second burn Mk 38 solid fuel rocket motor which resulted in a 75 percent range increase. The later Mk 52 motor was similar, but weighed 3 lb more, at 157 lb. Its DPN-72 GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-4137 target seeker, OA-4136 flight control group (/B through D/B versions), as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

Although it had a launch envelope of Mach 0.7 to 2.2, from sea level to 90,000 ft (27,430 m) at targets up to 13 miles (21 km) away, its utility in Vietnam was severely hampered by a minimum range of 1 mile (1.6 km). There, it to be virtually useless against maneuvering, fighter-sized targets, especially at low level.

The Italian Aspide missile used the AIM-7E as a jumping-off point. Work began in 1969 to incorporate an Italian SAR seeker to the Sparrow airframe. It is believed to have finally replaced the AIM-7E on Italian F-104Ss in the late 1980s. The AIM-7E-2 was an AIM-7E with the ALMC No. 27 'dogfight' modification, to give the missile a shorter minimum range (1,500 ft/457 m), as well as maneuverability and fuzing improvements. It was introduced in 1969 to correct AIM-7E performance shortcomings and was also exported to Britain for use with the F-4K/M. This version of the Sparrow was rushed to Southeast Asia where it replaced the AIM-7E within months.

Combat AIM-7Es were overall FSN 17925 gloss white, except for the radomes, which were left unpainted (a very light gray color). Color bands included a '1 to 3-in' wide FSN 23538 yellow band at the front of the warhead, and a '2 to 3-in' wide FSN 30117 brown band on the rocket motor beginning about three in behind the aft launch hook. The AIM-7E-2 (and
subsequent versions of the AIM-7E family) were identifiable by the 1-in wide FSN 17038 black 'L' markings on their wings.

All AIM-7E serial numbers were prefixed by 'R-' and suffixed by 'b'. This nomenclature was applied to both the target seeker and flight control sections. As a missile was upgraded, its suffix would reflect the version it had been upgraded to (e.g. R-8956-b would become R-8956-b-2 if it was upgraded by ALMC No. 27 to the AIM-7E-2 standard). Also, there were no leading zeros on the numbers applied to the missiles.

Finally, the table only reflects original production, not upgrades. All blocks beginning with the letter 'b' denoted AIM-7E-2 production. In the following table, the first suffix and last prefix in each sequence have been omitted. Of the 20,650 missiles built, 8653 (almost 42 per cent) were originally built as AIM-7E-2s. In FY65, the USAF allotted serials 65-995 to 2194 for AIM-7E production, but the order was canceled.

The AIM-7E-3 was an E-2 modified by AWC-78 (dated 27 August 1976), the 'reliability and fuze improvement modification'.

The AIM-7E-4 was an E-3 modified by AWC-93, also called the 'spillover modification', to allow it to be used with early F-14A Tomcats. Its DPN-85 GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-8888(V)2 target seeker, OA-8886(V)1 flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

The RIM-7E-5 Sea Sparrow was a short-range self-defense weapon for ships that was used with the basic point defense surface missile system (BPDSMS). Unlike later RIM-7s, it had fixed wings. AIM-7E-2s were modified to RIM-7E-5 standard by AWC-78, Amendment 3 (dated 30 April 1979).

AIM-7E-3s were modified by AWC-78, Amendment 4 (beginning 30 April, further modified on 29 August 1979).

AIM-7E Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136 37.39 155.7 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 2063-5147 37.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E 143.97 436.6

AIM-7E-2 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137A 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136A or C 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 380031 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-2 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E/E-2 Production
Block Serial Numbers Quantity Block Serial Numbers Quantity

af R-0001 to 0375-b 375 ax R-09521 to 10020-b 500
ag R-0376 to 0750-b 375 ay R-10021 to 10575-b 555
ah R-0751 to 1125-b 375 az R-10576 to 11259-b 684
ai R-1126 to 1500-b 375 ba R-11260 to 11733-b-2 474
aj R-1501 to 2250-b 750 ga R-11734 to 12135-b 402
ak R-2251 to 3000-b 750 gb R-12136 to 12219-b 84
al R-3001 to 3750-b 750 bb R-12220 to 12939-b-2 720
am R-3751 to 4350-b 600 bc R-12940 to 13352-b-2 413
an R-4351 to 5100-b 750 gc R-13353 to 13436-b 84
ao R-5101 to 5850-b 750 bd R-13437 to 13686-b-2 250
ap R-5851 to 6600-b 750 be R-13687 to 14616-b-2 930
aq R-6601 to 7350-b 750 bf R-14617 to 15546-b-2 930
ar R-7351 to 7550-b 200 bg R-15547 to 16476-b-2 930
as R-7551 to 7750-b 200 bh R-16477 to 17415-b-2 939
at R-7751 to 8355-b 605 gd R-17416 to 17455-b 40
au R-8356 to 8555-b 200 bi R-17456 to 18596-b-2 1141
av R-8556 to 8955-b 400 ge R-18597 to 18724-b 128
aw R-8956 to 9520-b 565 bj R-18725 to 20650-b-2 1926

AIM-7E-3 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8887(V)1 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-3 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E-4 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-4 143.97 428.7

RIM-7E-5 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8887(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)2 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 2623601 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) 2623602 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7E-5 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E-6 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 158.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 1 12.99 70.6 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-6 143.97 437.9

The final 'E' was the AIM-7E-6, which incorporated the Mk 38 Mod 1 warhead as AWB 110, Rev. A. Over a period of 10 years 25,000 AIM-7Es, of various versions were produced at a unit cost of about $74,000, but none remain operational with the USAF or USN. Up to this point, the configuration of AIM-7s had been guidance and control section, wing, warhead, and rocket motor.

Work on the British XJ 521 Sky Flash began in 1972. It was essentially an AIM-7E-2 with an indigenous monopulse seeker and a new fuze, giving it performance similar to the AIM-7M's seeker against low-flying targets, but with the lower aerodynamic performance of the older missile. Sky Flash entered service with the RAF in 1979 on the F-4K/M and was also exported to Sweden where it entered service with JA 37 Viggens in 1981 as the Rb 71.

Also in 1981, production of the Tornado essential modification package (TEMP) Sky Flash began, with these missiles becoming basic equipment for the Tornado F.Mk 2/3. Continued improvement led to the 1985 introduction of the Super TEMP Sky Flash for both British and Saudi Tornado F.Mk 3s. These missiles featured modest aerodynamic changes for drag
reduction, an improved seeker, thinner wings, and a boost/sustain rocket motor. Beginning in 1988, earlier versions of Sky Flash were brought up to Super TEMP standards.

Development of a Thomson-CSF active seeker began in 1989, with a formal Active Sky Flash proposal being made to the RAF in January 1992. The original Swedish designation of this missile was Rb 71A when it was initially proposed, but changed to Rb 73 for a second proposal (for the JAS 39 Gripen).

Development the AIM-7F began in 1966, although it did not enter service until 1975. This virtually new missile used a CW-1178B/D 'von Karman' radome to cover the nose of the new OA-8877 target seeker section, which used either pulse-Doppler (PD) or continuous wave (CW) guidance and was designed to make the missile more capable against maneuvering,
low-altitude targets.

Avionics improvements enabled the primary WAU-10 continuous rod, or newer WAU-17 high explosive, blast-fragmentation warheads to be located in front of the OA-8878 flight control group, allowing the Mk 58 rocket motor to be enlarged (5,750-lb/25.6-kN 4.5-second boost, followed by 1,018-lb/4.5-kN 11-second sustainer), thus improving range. Four BSU-56 wings were attached to the flight control group, while BSU-57 fins were attached to the rocket motor.

The forward AIM-7F waveguide was 59.8 in (152 cm) long, while the aft was 61.5 in (156 cm) long. The missile had an 8.0-in (20-cm) diameter from the back of the radome to 8 in (20 cm) from the tail, when it tapered to a 6.6-in (17-cm) diameter. Production began in 1972 and ended in 1980, with the missiles costing about $276,000 each.

All missiles eventually went through a product optimization program (POP) retrofit, which was probably indicated by the AIM-7F-11 designation. AIM-7Fs were withdrawn from service by 1994 after being used to arm the F-4E/G/S, as well as the F-14, F-15, F-16ADF, and FA-18. The CATM-7F-3, also known as the Goldenbird airborne inert missile simulator (AIMS), was the captive trainer Sparrow for the AIM-7F, M, and P. The RIM-7F Sea Sparrow II was a version of the AIM-7F.

The AIM-7G was intended to arm the F-111D. However, it was canceled.

The RIM-7H-2 Sea Sparrow was developed from the AIM-7E-2 as a short-range self-defense weapon for ships. This was the first Sparrow fitted with folding wings and clipped fins (23.5-in/57-cm span). Its DPN-84A GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-4137B target seeker, OA-4136D flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

It could be launched six seconds after commitment. After AWC-97 (the 'rapid runup' modification), if fitted with the proper wings and fins, it could be used as an air-to-air missile (although the reverse was not true of the AIM-7E-2).

The RIM-7H-5 was a RIM-7H-2 modified by AWC 78, Amendment 4-1 (dated 30 April 1979).

It was developed at the same time as the AIM-7E-4 for use with the NATO Sea Sparrow surface missile system (NSSMS). Its DPN-84B GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-8888(V)1 target seeker, OA-8886(V)1 flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide. In addition to AWC-97, it incorporated parts of AWC-78.

AIM-7F Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length /Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5 earlier versions 19.33-in long
Target Seeker OA-8877 26.84 57.51 PD/CW
Warhead WAU-10 15.76 85.6 expanding rod
Flight Control OA-8878 22.64 76.18
Wings (4) BSU-56A/B 38.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7F-11 141.48 508.11

RIM-7H-2 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137B 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136D 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Rt. Wings (2) BSU-38 19.45 15.25-in span, 18.62-in chord
Left Wings (2) BSU-39 19.45 (23.3-in folded span)
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) BSU-25 11.4 8.45-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7H-2 143.97 432.6

RIM-7H-5 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks
Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)1 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 158.8 weight for entire GCS
Rt. Wings (2) BSU-38 19.45 15.25-in span, 18.62-in chord
Left Wings (2) BSU-39 19.45 (23.3-in folded span)
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) BSU-25 11.4 8.45-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7H-5 143.97 440.6

AIM-7M Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5
Guidance WGU-6 (early) 26.84 62.3 PD/CW
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7M 141.48 509.22

The 509-lb AIM-7M (F-1), featured an inverse monopulse seeker, active radar fuze, WAU-17 focused blast fragmentation warhead and numerous other evolutionary improvements to increase reliability and decrease cost (to $225,000 each). First produced by General Dynamics-Camden (Arkansas), it entered service in 1983, with production ending in 1992.

The WGU-5 GCS (A/B through E/B versions) was composed of the CW-1178B/D radome, WGU-6 guidance (A, B, or C/B versions), WCU-5 control sections (/B through D/B versions), as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide. To eliminate a wing-buzz problem discovered with the BSU-56A/B wings used by the AIM-7F, the AIM-7M's BSU-56C/B wings each had 0.25-lb weights affixed to their tips. The 510-lb AIM-7M (H-Build) missile featured GCS modifications including inertial observer guidance (IOG), improved ECCM, and a more sophisticated interface between the missile and its launch aircraft.

It could be distinguished from other AIM-7Ms by the 'H' suffix to its serial number. Aircraft equipped with AIM-7Ms included the F-14, F-15, and F/A-18.

The 502-lb RIM-7M was developed at the same time as the AIM-7M to replace the RIM-7F. It differed from the air-launched version by having 43.9-lb, BSU-64 folding wings, 12.4-lb, BSU-63 clipped fins (with 7.99-in/20-cm spans), and a 212.3-lb, Mk 58 Mod 4 remotely armed rocket motor. These missiles were used with the self-defense surface missile system (SDSMS), comprised of the Mk 57 NSSMS and the Mk 23 target acquisition system (TAS). They could also be used with the older Mk 41 and Mk 48 NSSMS.

The ATM-7M and RTM-7M were AIM/RIM-7M missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-61 telemetry unit.

The 503-lb AIM-7P and RIM-7P missiles incorporated a new autopilot, computer, and fuze to improve the Sparrow's capability against cruise missiles. Initial flight testing ran from October 1989 through March 1991, with FOT&E conducted from July 1993 through March 1994.

Both modifications of AIM/RIM-7M, F1 and H-Build missiles and new missiles were procured. There were two types of modification kits: Block I, which incorporated new WGU-6D/B guidance section with the new DSU-34/B fuze (150 in FY91 and 390 in FY92), and Block II with WGU-6E/B guidance section, the same fuze, and a new rear antenna (474 in FY94 and 422 in FY95). Eventually all missiles will be brought up to Block II standards.

New missiles were built at a rate of 800 per year in both FY92 and FY93. AIM-7Ps were only used by the F-14 and F/A-18 (although they also underwent testing on the USAF's F-15). Its inverse monopulse seeker was compatible with either CW or pulse-Doppler illumination. The initial new production contract was released in June 1992, with Hughes-Tucson producing the largest share.

Eventually, all surviving USN AIM/RIM-7M missiles were upgraded to AIM/RIM-7P standards. These missiles were also offered to NATO countries, including in a vertical launch configuration. The ATM-7P and RTM-7P designations were assigned to identify AIM/RIM-7P missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-61A telemetry unit.

The 514-lb AIM-7R and RIM-7R were only used only by the USN. A modification of Block II AIM-7Ps by the missile homing improvement program (MHIP), it incorporated a dual-mode high-speed missile infra-red (HSMIR) IR/SAR seeker. Infra-red guidance was provided by a nose-mounted seeker, only about half the size of that used by the AIM-9, but with a comparable performance. The IR terminal guidance was incorporated without compromising the performance of the existing SAR seeker.

After launch, the IR seeker was activated and its dome cover ejected. It then began a preprogrammed search pattern to lock onto the same target as the SAR seeker, whereupon the missile could transition to IR guidance, allowing the illuminating radar to break lock and engage a new target. If the transition to IR guidance did not occur (e.g. because equipment malfunction or bad weather), the missile could still be guided to the target using the illuminating radar. Initial flight testing was scheduled from October 1993 through September 1994, with FOT&E scheduled to begin in January 1996.

The 507-lb RIM-7R was developed as the same time as the AIM-7R. It was basically the same as the RIM-7P, but with the new seeker fitted.

The ATM-7R and RTM-7R designations were assigned to identify AIM/RIM-7P missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-76 telemetry unit.

The first public disclosure of the operational use of a passively-guided version of the Sparrow (AIM-7R?) was made during the spring of 1994. One of these missiles, said to be fitted with either an infra-red or charge coupled device (CCD) TV seeker, reportedly shot down the first Iraqi aircraft of the 1991 Gulf War.
shocking.gif
OMG


The evolved Sea Sparrow missile (ESSM) was a virtually new missile, with a new airframe, bigger motor, and tail control. The ultimate program goal was a missile with a three-fold improvement in aerodynamic performance at twice the range of the RIM-7P.

Initial designations for ESSM are RIM-7PTC and RIM-7RTC (the TC standing for 'tail control'). It was also proposed as a replacement for the canceled AAAM Phoenix-replacement program.

Launchers included the AERO 7A (F-4 fuselage), LAU-17A (F-4 pylon), LAU-92 (F-14), LAU-106 (F-15), LAU-115 and -116 (F/A-18, and F-16).

AIM-7P Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5
Guidance WGU-6 (late) 26.84 62.3
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7P 141.48 509.22

AIM-7R Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome
Guidance 48.0 74.5 including radome
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7R 145.86 513.92

combat score of AIM-7R any information?
 
Last edited:
Point Mugu trials, 1949

It's vaguely Sparrow-ish for sure, but it has the unmistakable look of a 1940s missile.

This was a great article; thanks.

The common thread of all the guided missile research begun at the end of WW2 is that whatever might have happened in terms of when they first shot down a drone under guidance, they essentially all took a decade to end up on squadron service aircraft.
 
The Firebee is seen flying with wingtip IR augmentation Pods what looks weird for a radar test shot.

It might also have been used to help with optical target tracking by kinetheodolites on the test range.

Did any of the early Sparrow development work ever dabble in IR?

See the first attached file in this post about the Diamondback missile. It mentions a Sparrow III-IR missile as a possible loadout for the F3H-2 in 1957.
 
The original Navy air-to-air missile program began near the end of World War II when BuAer advanced the concept of a beam-riding 5-in (13-cm) high-velocity aircraft rocket (HVAR). With this type of guidance system the launching aircraft illuminated the target with radar and the missile simply attempted to stay in the center of the radar beam. In May 1946, under Project Hot Shot, Sperry Gyroscope Co. of Bristol, TN, was asked to submit a proposal for a missile based on the HVAR with a range between 1,000 and 6,000 ft (305 and 1830 m) and fast enough to overtake a Mach 1.0 target.

The following March, Sperry reported that the HVAR's 5-in (13-cm) diameter was too small to accommodate the design requirements. An 8-in (20-cm) diameter missile body was recommended, a standard which was maintained for the entire Sparrow family. Douglas Aircraft Co. was subcontracted to produce the airframe while Sperry concentrated on guidance. The development contract was signed in May 1947, with project being named Sparrow in July. Unpowered separation testing began at Pt Mugu in January 1948.

In January 1951 the Navy placed an advance order for 1,000 Sparrow Is, officially designated air-to-air missile-Navy (AAM-N)-2. In September 1952 Sparrow became the first project of the newly established VX-4 of the Naval Air Missile Test Center at Pt Mugu CA.

In 1955, nearly 10 years after development began, VA-83, equipped with the F7U-3M Cutlass, became the first squadron to receive the new missile. Fleet service began in 1956 with deliveries to F3D-1M Skynight, F3H-2M Demon, and other F7U-3M squadrons. However, the 140-in (355-cm) long Sparrow I's beam-riding design lacked a true all-weather capability because its APG-51 guidance radar required visual identification of the target. Eventually, the entire concept was abandoned, with the last of 2,000 of the 310-lb Sparrow Is being delivered in April 1957. In 1962, after it was out of service, Sparrow I was redesignated AIM-7A.

The AAM-N-3 Sparrow II was another Douglas project, but featured a completely different guidance system with an active radar seeker. This increased the missile's length to 144 in (365 cm), which set the standard for all subsequent Sparrows. It was designed originally for the F5D Skylancer, but when that program was canceled in 1956 it was taken over by the Canadian government for their CF-105 Arrow, but that, too, was canceled in 1959. The 420-lb missile was belatedly redesignated AIM-7B in 1962.

The genesis of ultimate Raytheon 500-lb class AIM-7 Sparrow began in 1951 with their 380-lb AAM-N-6 Sparrow III. In reality, this was a completely new missile that featured SARH guidance behind a 'tangent ogive' radome, a 65-lb continuous-rod warhead, and a solid fuel rocket motor. The first guided launch occurred in February 1953, and it replaced the Sparrow I in production in 1956. (Although successfully tested in 1957, an infra-red guided version was canceled.) Reaching the fleet in August 1958, about 2,000 were produced to arm the F3H-2M Demon. The USAF had designated the Sparrow III as the AIM-101 prior to 1962, when the joint designation system redesignated it the AIM-7C.

The 440-lb AAM-N-6A Sparrow IIIA replaced the AAM-N-6 in production during 1959. It was the first Sparrow to supplement earlier rail launchers with an ejector launch capability. Its performance was increased by a limited proximity fuzing capability, enabling head-on intercepts, and a storable liquid fuel rocket motor which permitted supersonic launches and increased range. It was redesignated the AIM-7D in 1962, with 7,500 being produced to arm the F4H-1 and F-110A Phantom II.

The AIM-7E Sparrow IIIB entered production in 1963 and incorporated a new 7,600-lb thrust (33.81-kN), 2.9-second burn Mk 38 solid fuel rocket motor which resulted in a 75 percent range increase. The later Mk 52 motor was similar, but weighed 3 lb more, at 157 lb. Its DPN-72 GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-4137 target seeker, OA-4136 flight control group (/B through D/B versions), as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

Although it had a launch envelope of Mach 0.7 to 2.2, from sea level to 90,000 ft (27,430 m) at targets up to 13 miles (21 km) away, its utility in Vietnam was severely hampered by a minimum range of 1 mile (1.6 km). There, it to be virtually useless against maneuvering, fighter-sized targets, especially at low level.

The Italian Aspide missile used the AIM-7E as a jumping-off point. Work began in 1969 to incorporate an Italian SAR seeker to the Sparrow airframe. It is believed to have finally replaced the AIM-7E on Italian F-104Ss in the late 1980s. The AIM-7E-2 was an AIM-7E with the ALMC No. 27 'dogfight' modification, to give the missile a shorter minimum range (1,500 ft/457 m), as well as maneuverability and fuzing improvements. It was introduced in 1969 to correct AIM-7E performance shortcomings and was also exported to Britain for use with the F-4K/M. This version of the Sparrow was rushed to Southeast Asia where it replaced the AIM-7E within months.

Combat AIM-7Es were overall FSN 17925 gloss white, except for the radomes, which were left unpainted (a very light gray color). Color bands included a '1 to 3-in' wide FSN 23538 yellow band at the front of the warhead, and a '2 to 3-in' wide FSN 30117 brown band on the rocket motor beginning about three in behind the aft launch hook. The AIM-7E-2 (and
subsequent versions of the AIM-7E family) were identifiable by the 1-in wide FSN 17038 black 'L' markings on their wings.

All AIM-7E serial numbers were prefixed by 'R-' and suffixed by 'b'. This nomenclature was applied to both the target seeker and flight control sections. As a missile was upgraded, its suffix would reflect the version it had been upgraded to (e.g. R-8956-b would become R-8956-b-2 if it was upgraded by ALMC No. 27 to the AIM-7E-2 standard). Also, there were no leading zeros on the numbers applied to the missiles.

Finally, the table only reflects original production, not upgrades. All blocks beginning with the letter 'b' denoted AIM-7E-2 production. In the following table, the first suffix and last prefix in each sequence have been omitted. Of the 20,650 missiles built, 8653 (almost 42 per cent) were originally built as AIM-7E-2s. In FY65, the USAF allotted serials 65-995 to 2194 for AIM-7E production, but the order was canceled.

The AIM-7E-3 was an E-2 modified by AWC-78 (dated 27 August 1976), the 'reliability and fuze improvement modification'.

The AIM-7E-4 was an E-3 modified by AWC-93, also called the 'spillover modification', to allow it to be used with early F-14A Tomcats. Its DPN-85 GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-8888(V)2 target seeker, OA-8886(V)1 flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

The RIM-7E-5 Sea Sparrow was a short-range self-defense weapon for ships that was used with the basic point defense surface missile system (BPDSMS). Unlike later RIM-7s, it had fixed wings. AIM-7E-2s were modified to RIM-7E-5 standard by AWC-78, Amendment 3 (dated 30 April 1979).

AIM-7E-3s were modified by AWC-78, Amendment 4 (beginning 30 April, further modified on 29 August 1979).

AIM-7E Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136 37.39 155.7 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 2063-5147 37.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E 143.97 436.6

AIM-7E-2 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137A 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136A or C 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 380031 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-2 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E/E-2 Production
Block Serial Numbers Quantity Block Serial Numbers Quantity

af R-0001 to 0375-b 375 ax R-09521 to 10020-b 500
ag R-0376 to 0750-b 375 ay R-10021 to 10575-b 555
ah R-0751 to 1125-b 375 az R-10576 to 11259-b 684
ai R-1126 to 1500-b 375 ba R-11260 to 11733-b-2 474
aj R-1501 to 2250-b 750 ga R-11734 to 12135-b 402
ak R-2251 to 3000-b 750 gb R-12136 to 12219-b 84
al R-3001 to 3750-b 750 bb R-12220 to 12939-b-2 720
am R-3751 to 4350-b 600 bc R-12940 to 13352-b-2 413
an R-4351 to 5100-b 750 gc R-13353 to 13436-b 84
ao R-5101 to 5850-b 750 bd R-13437 to 13686-b-2 250
ap R-5851 to 6600-b 750 be R-13687 to 14616-b-2 930
aq R-6601 to 7350-b 750 bf R-14617 to 15546-b-2 930
ar R-7351 to 7550-b 200 bg R-15547 to 16476-b-2 930
as R-7551 to 7750-b 200 bh R-16477 to 17415-b-2 939
at R-7751 to 8355-b 605 gd R-17416 to 17455-b 40
au R-8356 to 8555-b 200 bi R-17456 to 18596-b-2 1141
av R-8556 to 8955-b 400 ge R-18597 to 18724-b 128
aw R-8956 to 9520-b 565 bj R-18725 to 20650-b-2 1926

AIM-7E-3 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8887(V)1 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-3 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E-4 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-4 143.97 428.7

RIM-7E-5 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8887(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)2 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 2623601 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) 2623602 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7E-5 143.97 428.7

AIM-7E-6 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)2 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 158.8 weight for entire GCS
Wings (4) 595033 34.4 16.00-in span, 18.62-in chord
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 1 12.99 70.6 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) MX-4421 12.0 12.0-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7E-6 143.97 437.9

The final 'E' was the AIM-7E-6, which incorporated the Mk 38 Mod 1 warhead as AWB 110, Rev. A. Over a period of 10 years 25,000 AIM-7Es, of various versions were produced at a unit cost of about $74,000, but none remain operational with the USAF or USN. Up to this point, the configuration of AIM-7s had been guidance and control section, wing, warhead, and rocket motor.

Work on the British XJ 521 Sky Flash began in 1972. It was essentially an AIM-7E-2 with an indigenous monopulse seeker and a new fuze, giving it performance similar to the AIM-7M's seeker against low-flying targets, but with the lower aerodynamic performance of the older missile. Sky Flash entered service with the RAF in 1979 on the F-4K/M and was also exported to Sweden where it entered service with JA 37 Viggens in 1981 as the Rb 71.

Also in 1981, production of the Tornado essential modification package (TEMP) Sky Flash began, with these missiles becoming basic equipment for the Tornado F.Mk 2/3. Continued improvement led to the 1985 introduction of the Super TEMP Sky Flash for both British and Saudi Tornado F.Mk 3s. These missiles featured modest aerodynamic changes for drag
reduction, an improved seeker, thinner wings, and a boost/sustain rocket motor. Beginning in 1988, earlier versions of Sky Flash were brought up to Super TEMP standards.

Development of a Thomson-CSF active seeker began in 1989, with a formal Active Sky Flash proposal being made to the RAF in January 1992. The original Swedish designation of this missile was Rb 71A when it was initially proposed, but changed to Rb 73 for a second proposal (for the JAS 39 Gripen).

Development the AIM-7F began in 1966, although it did not enter service until 1975. This virtually new missile used a CW-1178B/D 'von Karman' radome to cover the nose of the new OA-8877 target seeker section, which used either pulse-Doppler (PD) or continuous wave (CW) guidance and was designed to make the missile more capable against maneuvering,
low-altitude targets.

Avionics improvements enabled the primary WAU-10 continuous rod, or newer WAU-17 high explosive, blast-fragmentation warheads to be located in front of the OA-8878 flight control group, allowing the Mk 58 rocket motor to be enlarged (5,750-lb/25.6-kN 4.5-second boost, followed by 1,018-lb/4.5-kN 11-second sustainer), thus improving range. Four BSU-56 wings were attached to the flight control group, while BSU-57 fins were attached to the rocket motor.

The forward AIM-7F waveguide was 59.8 in (152 cm) long, while the aft was 61.5 in (156 cm) long. The missile had an 8.0-in (20-cm) diameter from the back of the radome to 8 in (20 cm) from the tail, when it tapered to a 6.6-in (17-cm) diameter. Production began in 1972 and ended in 1980, with the missiles costing about $276,000 each.

All missiles eventually went through a product optimization program (POP) retrofit, which was probably indicated by the AIM-7F-11 designation. AIM-7Fs were withdrawn from service by 1994 after being used to arm the F-4E/G/S, as well as the F-14, F-15, F-16ADF, and FA-18. The CATM-7F-3, also known as the Goldenbird airborne inert missile simulator (AIMS), was the captive trainer Sparrow for the AIM-7F, M, and P. The RIM-7F Sea Sparrow II was a version of the AIM-7F.

The AIM-7G was intended to arm the F-111D. However, it was canceled.

The RIM-7H-2 Sea Sparrow was developed from the AIM-7E-2 as a short-range self-defense weapon for ships. This was the first Sparrow fitted with folding wings and clipped fins (23.5-in/57-cm span). Its DPN-84A GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-4137B target seeker, OA-4136D flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide.

It could be launched six seconds after commitment. After AWC-97 (the 'rapid runup' modification), if fitted with the proper wings and fins, it could be used as an air-to-air missile (although the reverse was not true of the AIM-7E-2).

The RIM-7H-5 was a RIM-7H-2 modified by AWC 78, Amendment 4-1 (dated 30 April 1979).

It was developed at the same time as the AIM-7E-4 for use with the NATO Sea Sparrow surface missile system (NSSMS). Its DPN-84B GCS was composed of the CW-646 radome, OA-8888(V)1 target seeker, OA-8886(V)1 flight control group, as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide. In addition to AWC-97, it incorporated parts of AWC-78.

AIM-7F Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length /Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5 earlier versions 19.33-in long
Target Seeker OA-8877 26.84 57.51 PD/CW
Warhead WAU-10 15.76 85.6 expanding rod
Flight Control OA-8878 22.64 76.18
Wings (4) BSU-56A/B 38.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7F-11 141.48 508.11

RIM-7H-2 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-4137B 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-4136D 37.39 150.8 weight for entire GCS
Rt. Wings (2) BSU-38 19.45 15.25-in span, 18.62-in chord
Left Wings (2) BSU-39 19.45 (23.3-in folded span)
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) BSU-25 11.4 8.45-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7H-2 143.97 432.6

RIM-7H-5 Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks
Radome CW-646 19.24
Target Seeker OA-8888(V)1 23.63 CW
Flight Control OA-8886(V)1 37.39 158.8 weight for entire GCS
Rt. Wings (2) BSU-38 19.45 15.25-in span, 18.62-in chord
Left Wings (2) BSU-39 19.45 (23.3-in folded span)
Warhead Mk 38 Mod 0 12.99 69.4 expanding rod
Rocket Motor Mk 38 or Mk 52 50.72 157.0 various Mods
Fins (4) BSU-25 11.4 8.45-in span, 18.50-in chord
Miscellaneous 5.1 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round RIM-7H-5 143.97 440.6

AIM-7M Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5
Guidance WGU-6 (early) 26.84 62.3 PD/CW
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7M 141.48 509.22

The 509-lb AIM-7M (F-1), featured an inverse monopulse seeker, active radar fuze, WAU-17 focused blast fragmentation warhead and numerous other evolutionary improvements to increase reliability and decrease cost (to $225,000 each). First produced by General Dynamics-Camden (Arkansas), it entered service in 1983, with production ending in 1992.

The WGU-5 GCS (A/B through E/B versions) was composed of the CW-1178B/D radome, WGU-6 guidance (A, B, or C/B versions), WCU-5 control sections (/B through D/B versions), as well as the tunnel cable and waveguide. To eliminate a wing-buzz problem discovered with the BSU-56A/B wings used by the AIM-7F, the AIM-7M's BSU-56C/B wings each had 0.25-lb weights affixed to their tips. The 510-lb AIM-7M (H-Build) missile featured GCS modifications including inertial observer guidance (IOG), improved ECCM, and a more sophisticated interface between the missile and its launch aircraft.

It could be distinguished from other AIM-7Ms by the 'H' suffix to its serial number. Aircraft equipped with AIM-7Ms included the F-14, F-15, and F/A-18.

The 502-lb RIM-7M was developed at the same time as the AIM-7M to replace the RIM-7F. It differed from the air-launched version by having 43.9-lb, BSU-64 folding wings, 12.4-lb, BSU-63 clipped fins (with 7.99-in/20-cm spans), and a 212.3-lb, Mk 58 Mod 4 remotely armed rocket motor. These missiles were used with the self-defense surface missile system (SDSMS), comprised of the Mk 57 NSSMS and the Mk 23 target acquisition system (TAS). They could also be used with the older Mk 41 and Mk 48 NSSMS.

The ATM-7M and RTM-7M were AIM/RIM-7M missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-61 telemetry unit.

The 503-lb AIM-7P and RIM-7P missiles incorporated a new autopilot, computer, and fuze to improve the Sparrow's capability against cruise missiles. Initial flight testing ran from October 1989 through March 1991, with FOT&E conducted from July 1993 through March 1994.

Both modifications of AIM/RIM-7M, F1 and H-Build missiles and new missiles were procured. There were two types of modification kits: Block I, which incorporated new WGU-6D/B guidance section with the new DSU-34/B fuze (150 in FY91 and 390 in FY92), and Block II with WGU-6E/B guidance section, the same fuze, and a new rear antenna (474 in FY94 and 422 in FY95). Eventually all missiles will be brought up to Block II standards.

New missiles were built at a rate of 800 per year in both FY92 and FY93. AIM-7Ps were only used by the F-14 and F/A-18 (although they also underwent testing on the USAF's F-15). Its inverse monopulse seeker was compatible with either CW or pulse-Doppler illumination. The initial new production contract was released in June 1992, with Hughes-Tucson producing the largest share.

Eventually, all surviving USN AIM/RIM-7M missiles were upgraded to AIM/RIM-7P standards. These missiles were also offered to NATO countries, including in a vertical launch configuration. The ATM-7P and RTM-7P designations were assigned to identify AIM/RIM-7P missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-61A telemetry unit.

The 514-lb AIM-7R and RIM-7R were only used only by the USN. A modification of Block II AIM-7Ps by the missile homing improvement program (MHIP), it incorporated a dual-mode high-speed missile infra-red (HSMIR) IR/SAR seeker. Infra-red guidance was provided by a nose-mounted seeker, only about half the size of that used by the AIM-9, but with a comparable performance. The IR terminal guidance was incorporated without compromising the performance of the existing SAR seeker.

After launch, the IR seeker was activated and its dome cover ejected. It then began a preprogrammed search pattern to lock onto the same target as the SAR seeker, whereupon the missile could transition to IR guidance, allowing the illuminating radar to break lock and engage a new target. If the transition to IR guidance did not occur (e.g. because equipment malfunction or bad weather), the missile could still be guided to the target using the illuminating radar. Initial flight testing was scheduled from October 1993 through September 1994, with FOT&E scheduled to begin in January 1996.

The 507-lb RIM-7R was developed as the same time as the AIM-7R. It was basically the same as the RIM-7P, but with the new seeker fitted.

The ATM-7R and RTM-7R designations were assigned to identify AIM/RIM-7P missiles with the warhead replaced by a AN/DKT-76 telemetry unit.

The first public disclosure of the operational use of a passively-guided version of the Sparrow (AIM-7R?) was made during the spring of 1994. One of these missiles, said to be fitted with either an infra-red or charge coupled device (CCD) TV seeker, reportedly shot down the first Iraqi aircraft of the 1991 Gulf War.
shocking.gif
OMG


The evolved Sea Sparrow missile (ESSM) was a virtually new missile, with a new airframe, bigger motor, and tail control. The ultimate program goal was a missile with a three-fold improvement in aerodynamic performance at twice the range of the RIM-7P.

Initial designations for ESSM are RIM-7PTC and RIM-7RTC (the TC standing for 'tail control'). It was also proposed as a replacement for the canceled AAAM Phoenix-replacement program.

Launchers included the AERO 7A (F-4 fuselage), LAU-17A (F-4 pylon), LAU-92 (F-14), LAU-106 (F-15), LAU-115 and -116 (F/A-18, and F-16).

AIM-7P Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome CW-1178B/D 16.78 7.5
Guidance WGU-6 (late) 26.84 62.3
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7P 141.48 509.22

AIM-7R Components
Component/Nomenclature/Length/Weight/Remarks

Radome
Guidance 48.0 74.5 including radome
Warhead WAU-17 15.76 85.1 blast-fragmentation
Control WCU-5 22.64 72.0
Wings (4) BSU-56C/B 39.8 16.00-in span, 17.66-in chord
Rocket Motor Mk 58 59.46 211.3 Mods 2, 3, and 5
Fins (4) BSU-57 24.6 11.5-in span, 18.5-in chord
Miscellaneous 6.62 waveguides and tunnel cable
All Up Round AIM-7R 145.86 513.92

combat score of AIM-7R any information?
Did the f-106 ever use the sparrow?
 
Did the f-106 ever use the sparrow?
Never. They always carried Hughes AIM-4's and AIM-26 or AIR-2's, sometimes a 20mm Vulcan. Their pylons were used during missile testing however, see this pic.
You said they sometime carried a 20mm. I’m assuming you mean a external pod. Also the thing you linked to they dabbled about the strategic manned fighter. Can you provide some details about it?
 
Did the f-106 ever use the sparrow?
Never. They always carried Hughes AIM-4's and AIM-26 or AIR-2's, sometimes a 20mm Vulcan. Their pylons were used during missile testing however, see this pic.
You said they sometime carried a 20mm. I’m assuming you mean a external pod. Also the thing you linked to they dabbled about the strategic manned fighter. Can you provide some details about it?
The Vulcan was actually carried in weapons bay and displaced the AIM-26. I think you'll find all of your F-106 question on this website. Don't be afraid to really use our search function in the top right, it took me about six years to get really comfortable on here!
 
Last edited:
Vulcan actually displaced the Genie in the weapons bay, it was a podded system. They only ever carried the AIM-26 on underwing pylons as part of test programs.
 
Vulcan actually displaced the Genie in the weapons bay, it was a podded system. They only ever carried the AIM-26 on underwing pylons as part of test programs.
Any idea why they used Genie on the F-106 but the more advanced AIM-26A only on the F-102?
 
Vulcan actually displaced the Genie in the weapons bay, it was a podded system. They only ever carried the AIM-26 on underwing pylons as part of test programs.
Any idea why they used Genie on the F-106 but the more advanced AIM-26A only on the F-102?

Development of the GAR-11 began in 1959 because the USAF wanted a head-on kill capability against Soviet bombers, and it used a nuke in part because the SSKP for a SARH missile at the time was not stellar. The F-106 armament suite was finalized a few years prior and the F-106 entered service in 1959, the first XGAR-11 didn't appear until 1960 anyway.
 
Vulcan actually displaced the Genie in the weapons bay, it was a podded system. They only ever carried the AIM-26 on underwing pylons as part of test programs.
Any idea why they used Genie on the F-106 but the more advanced AIM-26A only on the F-102?

Development of the GAR-11 began in 1959 because the USAF wanted a head-on kill capability against Soviet bombers, and it used a nuke in part because the SSKP for a SARH missile at the time was not stellar. The F-106 armament suite was finalized a few years prior and the F-106 entered service in 1959, the first XGAR-11 didn't appear until 1960 anyway.
Okay but how is it it went on the OLDER F-102 rather than the newer F-106? That's what's always puzzled me. Presumably any reasons for not putting it on the F-106 would apply to the F-102 only more so. :confused:
 
Vulcan actually displaced the Genie in the weapons bay, it was a podded system. They only ever carried the AIM-26 on underwing pylons as part of test programs.
Any idea why they used Genie on the F-106 but the more advanced AIM-26A only on the F-102?

Development of the GAR-11 began in 1959 because the USAF wanted a head-on kill capability against Soviet bombers, and it used a nuke in part because the SSKP for a SARH missile at the time was not stellar. The F-106 armament suite was finalized a few years prior and the F-106 entered service in 1959, the first XGAR-11 didn't appear until 1960 anyway.
Okay but how is it it went on the OLDER F-102 rather than the newer F-106? That's what's always puzzled me. Presumably any reasons for not putting it on the F-106 would apply to the F-102 only more so. :confused:

The Genie was the preferred air defense nuclear weapon. Consider this - as an unguided weapon, it couldn't be jammed or deflected. Since it used a time fuze set by the launch aircraft's fire control system, the fuzing couldn't be spoofed, nor did it rely on a direct hit. Against a bomber-type target, which could evade at around 2Gs, it couldn't be evaded if the fire control solution was correct. The warhead was 1.5 KT, lethal to about 1500' (500m), and not only killed the target aircraft, but rendered any salvage-fuzzed nuclear weapons inert through radiation flux. (Forget about that bomber formation stuff. Bomber tactics of the time were to saturate GCI with streams of aircraft penetrating GCI sectors in trail, separated by about 30 seconds or so. This would saturate the Classic GCI voice vectoring, which couldn't handle the targets fast enough. SAGE, with its computerized tracking, intercept calculation, and data links fixed that. (As long as the vacuum tubes in the FSQ-7s held out). The Falcons that the USAF interceptors carried at the time did not have proximity fuzes - they relied on a direct hit. (Missile Prox Fuzes are difficult - when somebody's marketing hype advertises that their system is a "hittile" (I'm looking at you, BAE), it means the couldn't make the Prox fuze work.) It's worth noting that the F-101B, when deployed, gave up 4 Falcons for 2 Genies - the original rotating bay door held 6 Falcons (3 per side, the usual 3 Radar/ 3 IR mix), the operational ships carried 2 Genies and 2 IR Falcons.
Now to the AIM-26. With the development of a smaller diameter low yield warhead, (250T, or 0.25KT) it became feasible to build a roughly Falcon-sized missile that, relying on blast/flash/ radiation, wouldn't require the same complication in a Prox fuze, and would be lethal within a roughy 250' (60-70m) miss distance, no matter what the aspect angle was. (The Prox fuze initiated at a simple detection of a target within the 200-250' range, regardless of aspect or closure rate.) This allowed the F-102 to carry a more effective weapon than the early Falcons it started with. It did have the limitation of requiring illumination to guide (Meaning that the launch air aft has to fly toward the Atomic Bomb), which was somewhat offset by the missile's behavior on loss of guidance. On launch, the Falcon would immediately turn to a lead-collision intercept course (0 bearing change), correcting for target motion (evasion) as it went in. On loss of signal, it would continue on its course until it impacted the target, the prox fuze initiated, or the missile self-destructed at the end of the run. So, with a low maneuvering bomber target, the chances were quite good that the missile would still get close enough for its Prox fuze to detect it.
 
Okay but that is opinion. (It may even be correct.) I'm looking for the actual reason.
 
It's (mostly) the actual reason. If you think about why the Air Force bothered with the F-102 at all, it will all become clear.

Modifying the F-102 weapons bay to accommodate Genie would have slowed down deployment of what was seen as an interim interceptor.

When it became clear the F-102 would be around longer than originally planned, Hughes designed the AIM-26 specifically for the aircraft to give it nuclear capability.
 
Last edited:
I've made a simple list based on the data I've found on this site:

Am I on the right track?

AIM-7 Sparrow (AAM)(Prototype) (1952)
AIM-7A Sparrow I (Beam Riding) (1952/56)
AIM-7B Sparrow II (Active Homing) (1958)
AIM-7C Sparrow III (Semi-Active Homing) (1956/58)
AIM-7D Sparrow III (Improved Performance) (1958/60)
AIM-7E Sparrow III (Improved Performance) (1960/63)
AIM-7F Sparrow (Improved Design and Performance) (1975/76)
AIM-7G Sparrow (Improved Guidance) (1970)
AIM-7H Sparrow (Designation not Used?)
AIM-7I Sparrow (Designation not Used?)
AIM-7J Sparrow (Japanese Version)
AIM-7K Sparrow (Designation not Used?)
AIM-7L Sparrow (Designation not Used?)
AIM-7M Sparrow (Monopulse Seeker Guidance) (1980/82)
AIM-7N Sparrow (Improved Design) (1984?)
AIM-7O Sparrow (Designation not Used?)
AIM-7P Sparrow (Improved Guidance) (1985/87)
AIM-7Q Advanced Sparrow (Infra-Red/Active Homing) (???)
AIM-7R Sparrow (Infra-Red/Active Homing) (1996)

RIM-7E Sea Sparrow (Ship Based SAM)(1964/57)
RIM-7F Sea Sparrow (Naval Version of AIM-7F) (1975)
RIM-7G Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7H Sea Sparrow (Folding Wing version of AIM-7H) (1973/74)
RIM-7I Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7J Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7K Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7L Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7M Sea Sparrow (Naval Version of AIM-7M) (1981/83)
RIM-7N Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7O Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7P Sea Sparrow (Naval Version of AIM-7P) (1986/88)
RIM-7Q Sea Sparrow (Designation not Used)
RIM-7R Sea Sparrow (Naval Version of AIM-7R) (1996)
RIM-7T Sea Sparrow (Tail Control) (2002?)
 
Whether the radio wave detection system in the aim-7 warhead is like shown on picture?
 

Attachments

  • Radarska detekcija 12.jpg
    Radarska detekcija 12.jpg
    79.4 KB · Views: 234
Interestingly, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa has what appears to be a radar assembly, or a pretty accurate mockup thereof, of the radar set on a Sparrow II, with an antenna that moves.

As mentioned above, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) wanted to use the Douglas AAM-N-3 Sparrow II, the first active radar-guided air-to-air missile in the world it seems, on its future supersonic all-weather bomber interceptor, the famous Avro CF-105 Arrow. A.V. Roe Aircraft (Avro aircraft) of Malton, Ontario, disagreed with the RCAF, however. The missile it leaned towards was the Hughes GAR-1 Falcon, a less expensive and close to operational weapon with a semi-active radar autoguiding system. The RCAF got its way, however, and the Canadian Department of Defence Production (DDP) began discussions to acquire the production rights for the Sparrow II. This process turned out to be longer than expected, however. Indeed, the department had to negotiate with the manufacturers of many elements of the missile.

Sinister rumors began to circulate following the abandonment, around February 1957, by the United states Navy (USN), of the only aircraft designed around the Sparrow II, the Douglas F5D Skylancer. Very worried, the DDP wanted to know if the survival of the missile was threatened. With reassurance from the USN, the department continued discussions with Douglas Aircraft and Canadair of Cartierville, Quebec, which was to manufacture the missiles for the Arrow. Then a bomb exploded in Ottawa. The USN had decided not to order the Sparrow II. Stunned, the DDP protested. The USN politely responded that its decision was final. Tension grew. The American authorities took the first step, offering to the RCAF Sparrow I or III air-to-air missiles. These weapons did not meet its requirements, and it politely refused. The American authorities then suggested that the DDP provide Douglas Aircraft with the money needed to finalize development of the Sparrow II. The DDP politely refused. The American negotiators then proposed that the department should take charge of the development of the missile.

This third offer seemed to satisfy a lot of people in Ottawa, starting with the RCAF and the missile specialists at the Defence Research Board. The Cabinet itself was tempted. It realized the many advantages of this transfer of responsibility which, let us remember, occurred just a few months before the holding of general elections. Indeed, many ruling party strategists were worried about the rising cost of the Arrow program. The problems surrounding the development of the Sparrow II should not make headlines. In fact, the Arrow project itself should not make headlines. The DDP therefore accepted the American proposal, hoping that its cost would not be too high.

The defeat of the ruling party in the June 1957 election was a game-changer. The new minority government undertook a review of government spending. As the weeks and months passed, the development of the Arrow continued. The aircraft made its first flight in March 1958. Days later, the Canadian Prime Minister and his party won an overwhelming majority in parliament in another general election. The new government soon found itself confronted with serious economic problems. Given the context, the very high cost of the Arrow program was the subject of increasing commentary.

Around March or April 1958, however, the DDP pushed aside the last obstacle preventing Canadair from producing the Sparrow II. The Montreal area aircraft manufacturer was then awarded a contract to produce 900 missiles, it was said. In September, the Prime Minister stated that the Arrow would not go into production immediately. His government would announce its decision on this important program in March 1959. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister adds that the Sparrow II would give way to the Falcon - the weapon Avro Aircraft had wanted in the first place. Canadair only manufactured a few (two?) Sparrow II missiles prior to this decision. In February 1959, the Canadian government abandoned the Arrow.

The abandonment of the Sparrow II led Canadair to seek work for the engineers hired for the project. The company loaned a number of them to Boeing Airplane, which was then heavily involved in the final development of the IM-99 Bomarc long-range surface-to-air missile. As well, the Montreal area aircraft manufacturer manufactured 550 pairs of Bomarc wings for the USAF between 1959 and 1962.
 
Last edited:
You know what is really interesting ? Sparrow II and BOMARC-B (and the never-was Bendix Eagle that got the BOMARC-B seeker) both were ARH missiles.
The BOMARC had Active Radar Homing.

Famously, BOMARC-B got the first pulse-doppler radar for terminal homing guidance.

I wonder if the Canadair engineers having worked on ARH Sparrow II were recruited by Boeing for the improved BOMARC.

This document explains how the BOMARC pioneered ARH and pulse doppler, altogether.

https://dokumen.tips/documents/the-development-of-airborne-pulse-doppler-radar.html

(it is too large to be attached, ROGNTUDJU !)

The Sparrow II for the Arrow was a joint effort by Bendix and Canadair, among others.

A good case could be make, that post Sparrow II cancellation in September 1958, the "Bendix ARH" effort went into the Eagle AAM.
Which borrowed its seeker from the BOMARC-B.

And the Canadair part of the Sparrow II effort - 150 to 180 engineers - was loaned to Boeing right from December 1958 and worked on the BOMARC-B.

And finally, the BOMARC-B itself was bought by Canada !

All this together makes Canada a (minor ?) player in early ARH and pulse doppler air to air missile history...
(funnily enough, Randall Whitcomb had unsubstanciated rumors of Astra-1 or Astra-2 being pulse doppler radars. He was completely wrong as usual, but this was relatively close, when you think about it).

Attached: excerpts from 1958-1959 publications found via Google books.
 

Attachments

  • Canadair Boeing.png
    Canadair Boeing.png
    46 KB · Views: 114
  • sparrow bomarc.png
    sparrow bomarc.png
    18.5 KB · Views: 95
Last edited:
And finally, the BOMARC-B itself was bought by Canada !
Well, both the CIM-10A and B models were originally intended to be operated alongside the Arrow, so one would wonder if that was at least part of the connection.
 
I think that there might have been a proposal for a mobile land based version of the Navy's BPDMS (RIM-7E) to help defend U.S. Army rear areas, but I'm not sure.
 
Hi! Does anyone know the rotation rate of AIM-7E/AIM-7F conical scan seeker?
Sorry, I don't have the answer Northrop, other than the AIM-7E had mechanical conical scanning, while the AIM-7F had electronic conical scanning.
 
Any way to find the AIM-7 pre Vietnam War test firing results? I mean someone must have known this anti bomber missile might have a hard time against maneuvering fighters.
The books I’ve read on the air war over N. Vietnam all seem to say that it’s failures in air to air combat were surprising. I doubt that.
Only Marshall L. Michell in Clashes: Air Combat over North Vietnam questions the pre war kill probabilities testing of the missile.
 
Any way to find the AIM-7 pre Vietnam War test firing results? I mean someone must have known this anti bomber missile might have a hard time against maneuvering fighters.
The books I’ve read on the air war over N. Vietnam all seem to say that it’s failures in air to air combat were surprising. I doubt that.
Only Marshall L. Michell in Clashes: Air Combat over North Vietnam questions the pre war kill probabilities testing of the missile.
Any way to find the AIM-7 pre Vietnam War test firing results? I mean someone must have known this anti bomber missile might have a hard time against maneuvering fighters.
The books I’ve read on the air war over N. Vietnam all seem to say that it’s failures in air to air combat were surprising. I doubt that.
Only Marshall L. Michell in Clashes: Air Combat over North Vietnam questions the pre war kill probabilities testing of the missile.
Sparrow testing would have been primarily done against targets simulating bombers not fighters, and certainly not fighters maneuvering with haste. Pre-Vietnam USAF (and Navy to a lesser extent) was concentrating on dropping nukes and shooting down bombers in that order, and dogfights were the last thing on anyone's mind.

Testing is typically also done by specialised units with vendor support on tap and everything in pristine condition. Additionally there would be no ROE requiring visual identification, allowing Sparrow launch within its best area of the envelope. Not really surprising there were differences in Vietnam.
 

Similar threads

Back
Top Bottom