AIM-9 Sidewinder
An overview of the versions
In 1946, launched a physicist of the u.s. navy William B. McLean at the Naval Ordnance Test Station (now Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake), located in california Inyokernu, research work entitled a Local project 602, at the end of which should be a heat-seeking missile for combat with enemy aircraft - essentially a rocket motor with payload and sensor of thermal radiation on the bow. He failed, however, to convince superiors to his project received appropriate funding, and so the development of initially spending most of his time in his garage, and bypassing šrotišť in Pasadena, where looking for the parts to build test equipment. In 1950 the McLeanovu efforts joined Howard Wilcox, and together they prepared the work entitled feasibility Studies 567, where was the invention described. In the meantime, work on the rocket, which in some respects was inspired in the German Enzianu, reached to such a stage that they could be in 1951, presented to admiral William Parsons, deputy director of the Department of armaments (Bureau of Ordnance). The following year they were working on a rocket already classified as a program.
As a result of the development work will eventually become aluminum "tube" long approximately 270 cm with a diameter of around 13 cm, which was driven by a rocket engine on solid fuel. At the stern were four wings, whose ends was placed a small stabilizing wheels, later patented under the name of the rolleron. In the bow under the glass cover was a sensor of infrared radiation on the basis of PbS (sulfide lead). The rest of the "tubes" filled out the massive electronics from the end of the forties.
The first test firing took place in 1951. The first hit of the air target was achieved on the fourteenth attempt. It occurred on the 11th. in September 1953, when the test rocket left the launching gear of the aeroplane A-1 Skyraider, piloted by Walter Schirrem, and hit an unmanned target QB-17 (it was a remote-controlled bomber B-17). In the same year was missile assigned the codename of the navy AAM-N-7 and the name of the Sidewinder by a poisonous desert snake (in English his name sounds rattlesnake horned). After comparative tests, the missile ship AIM-4 Falcon it into your loadout in 1956 established the us air force. According to the current manufacturer, the company Raytheon, reached missile range of the AIM-9 users worldwide approximately 270 kills.
XAAM-N-7
The designation of the prototype, that the serial version of the recalls only very remotely thanks to the rectangular kormidlům and wings, which was placed roughly at 2/3 of the length of the rocket.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder I
Shots from pre-production, in 1963, the designation changed to the AIM-9A.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IA
Indications for the rockets from the series production in 1963 was shot přeznačena on the AIM-9B.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IB
The variant with semi-active radar guidance system, in 1963 přeznačena on the AIM-9C.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IC
Version produced with INFRARED by entering, the dragon corresponds to the variant C, in 1963 přeznačena on the AIM-9D.
GAR-8
The designation for the Sidewinder IA used by the american airforce in 1962, there has been relabelling the AIM-9B.
AIM-9A
In the framework of the unification of the labelling of individual types of weaponry the u.s. armed forces was in 1963 the AIM-9A-labeled missiles AAM-N-7 Sidewinder from pre-production, produced by the company General Electric in 1955, to the armament of the navy were introduced in may 1956. Made, there were only 240.
AIM-9B
In the framework of the unification of the labelling of individual types of weaponry the u.s. armed forces was in 1963 the AIM-9B přeznačena serial missile AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IA, repektive GAR-8. Production to ensure the company's Philco (later Ford Aerospace and later Loral Aeronutronics), and General Electric. Missile initial operational capability for the u.s. navy achieved in 1956. Its powered by a rocket engine on the TPH Thiokol Mk.17, which after a period of 2.2 seconds to provide a move of 17.8 kN. Předfragmentovaná charge warhead Mk.8 had a mass of 4.5 kg and the effective efficiency of around 9 metres. In the activity it featured the gusty (Mk.303), or non-contact infrared lighter (Mk.304). Management and guidance part was the type Mk.1. Uncooled sensor based on PbS had a viewing angle of 25° and a speed of the monitoring target 11°/s. the AIM-9B could be on the nemanévrující target fired at distances of 900 to 4 800 meters and only from the back side (due to limitations arising from the sensitivity of the sensor). The rocket was also very sensitive to other sources of heat (sun, reflections from the ground), fog or rain. Aircraft-carrier in addition couldn't in the pitch maneuver with a larger multiplier than 2 g. Of the above restriction it follows, that this missile was primarily intended for the destruction of bombers of the opponent, in manévrovém duel between the fighters was its effectiveness problematic. Production of this version in the U.S. ran until 1962. Already made missile version B were later for the needs of the u.s. air force upgraded the standard variants of the E / J. AIM-9B was from the 1960 finalised to be built in the GERMAN company BGT (Bodensee Gerätetechnik) for the european NATO states. BGT was the final contractor and coordinator of the production, which ran not only in the Federal republic, but also in other parts of Europe. In the sixties ran the license production of these missiles under the designation Rb.24 also in Sweden. A copy of the AIM-9B marked R-3S fashioned the Soviet union. The AIM-9B is the first combat used anti-aircraft missile in the world, to the first duel occurred 24. September 1958 (see the text about R-3S).
AIM-9C
Version with semi-active radar homing system, which was created for the us navy as a response to the limited performances of the variants of the AIM-9B. Between the years 1965 to 1967 it was produced around 1000 pieces of this version. AIM-9C was used only on fighter aircraft F-8 Crusader, order against air targets to operate in any weather, without having to install radar compatible missile ship AIM-7 Sparrow. AIM-9C was equipped with a rocket motor Mk.36, combat parts of the Mk.48 and the lighter Mk.15. The range of missiles has been extended to 17,7 km. This variant of the very successful wasn't, and so the remaining AIM-9C was later modified to AIM-122A Sidearm.
AIM-9D
Even this version was created for the us navy as a response to the combat parameters version B. This version was planned to loadout their F-4D to implement even the u.s. air force. Problems with the development, however, caused delays, and so were in the arsenal of the Pheasant at first, integrated AIM-4D Falcon. After the Vietnam show martial ineffectiveness Falcons, was in the arsenal Pheasant the air force introduced the AIM-9E. AIM-9D was equipped with a new sensor-based PbS-cooled nitrogen (that was placed in the bottle of a volume of 6 liters in the drain equipment LAU-7). The viewing angle of the sensor was 40°, the speed of the tracking target was increased to 12°/s. the Cover of the sensor was made of a material based on MgF2 (fluoride magnesium). The guidance system was the type Mk.18. Better shaped bow in addition has lowered aerodynamic resistance and thus, together with the new engine Hercules Mk.36, to increase the range of the projectile. Similarly, as the version B, and the AIM-9D could be on target odpalována only from its rear side. Between the years 1965 to 1969 was the companies Philco-Ford and Raytheon manufactured around 1000 units of this version.
AIM-9E
The AIM-9E was created for the u.s. air force modernisation of the already manufactured missiles version B, because the development of completely new AIM-9D picked up late. Reduce the costs of the introduction, because they may not have extensively replacing the discharge device, and means for handling and maintenance. "Echo" compared to the AIM-9B was characterised by improved parameters for combat at low altitudes. The new sensor was cooled thermo-electrically to the principle of the Peltier phenomenon. The speed of the tracking target was thanks to the new electronics increased to 16.5°/s. the Maximum range accounted for about 4.2 km. The standard was modified about 5,000 missiles AIM-9B. Initial operational capability reached in 1967. Subvarianta AIM-9E-2 was equipped with an engine SR116 with a reduced-smoke propellant.
AIM-9F
The western european variant of the Sidewinderu. This version is based on the AIM-9B, compared to which has a new guidance system FGW Mod.2 from the German BGT with an infrared sensor, which was chilled with carbon dioxide. High-frequency circuits in the missile were made on the basis of semiconductors (at the AIM-9B have been an electron). The result was improved parameters at low altitudes and higher resistance to infrared interference. Development took place between the years 1965 to 1969. Into operational service introduced in 1969, this standard was later modified missiles AIM-9B, the majority of european users.
AIM-9G
Comes from variants of the AIM-9D. The biggest difference was the system of the extended capture target SEAM (Sidewinder Expanded Acquisition Mode), which would eventually become the standard in the following versions Sidewinderu. Sensor rocket was spřaženo with the radar aircraft, which allowed it to be aimed directly at the target before the shot. Thanks it didn't have the attacking fighter to get the target to the axis of the reticle, but the only button placed the marker on the selected target. In previous versions was the head firmly fixed with the axis of the projectile. For the needs of the navy by the company was Raytheon manufactured 2120 pieces. Production took place between the years 1970 to 1972.
AIM-9H
Version developed on basis of AIM-9G for the navy in order to increase reliability and reduce maintenance. The differences included the use solely of semiconductor components in the guidance and control of missiles. This positive effect on reliability because shocks during take-off and landing on aircraft carriers should be on the electronic parts of older Sidewinderů adverse effect. Reduced the minimum value of the range. The rocket engine was the type Mk.36. Amplified were servo motors controlling the helm of the rockets. The speed of the tracking target was increased to 20°/s. Modified was also the algorithm of the guidance section, a rocket now it was with the "advance", so that the target hit more in front. The maximum range was around for 17.7 miles. Initial operational capability reached in 1973. Between the years 1972 to 1974 was the companies Philco-Ford and Raytheon produced 7720 missiles for the u.s. navy. In the budget in the fiscal year 1976 requested the u.s. air force for the supply of 800 missiles of this type (whether the delivery actually occurred failed to verify).
AIM-9J
The successor of the version "Echo", which was the range of the partially sacrificed in favor of speed. The increased duration of the flight allowed new longer burning generator gas. Amplified were servo motors controlling the helm of the rockets. New was also the engine with the type designation Thiokol Mk.17. Although in this embodiment to apply the semiconductor, compared to the version H was the AIM-9J is still partially equipped with elektronkovými components. Lighters were either of the types of Mk.303 (gusty) and Mk.304 (non-contact), or one combination of the Mk.303 Mod.4. "Juliet" could be fired from an aeroplane flying at a multiple of up to 7.5 g. The production was started in the year 1972, in the same year in July were the u.s. air force the first missiles used in combat in the Vietnam war. AIM-9J initial operational capability reached reportedly up to 1977 (?). The J version was produced newly, however, a considerable part of the shots of this version originated modifications of already produced missiles AIM-9B and AIM-9E. In the mid-seventies was standing conversion options B to J about 7000 us dollars. The standard AIM-9J should be adjusted 590 missiles AIM-9B from the state of the air force and 1410 missiles of the same version, which the air force acquired from the arsenal of the navy. In 1973 was launched the production version of the AIM-9J-1, which differentiate the new laser non-contact igniter DSU-15/B, the algorithm for homing missiles with "advance" and probably the electronics built already completely based on semiconductors. This version was produced over 7000 pieces. Were later versions of the J-2 (this is the AIM-9J with the engine SR116) and J-3 (AIM-9J-1 with rocket engine SR116). Company Philco-Ford (from the 1976 Ford Aerospace) was a total made / adjusted to approximately 13 000 rockets the J version. AIM-9J (resp. N) were also manufactured under license in Sweden under the designation Rb.24J.
AIM-9K
Version developed at the Naval Weapons Centre in China Lake as an alternative to the AIM-9L. Nevyráběna.
AIM-9L
In 1971, the u.s. air force and navy agreed on the joint development of a new generation of Sidewinderu, which should be based on variants of the AIM-9H. The main objective was to develop a všerakurzovou anti-aircraft guided missile for use against sharply manévrujícím objectives. Its development was terminated in the beginning of the year 1975. Shooting tests (including shooting against the target PQM-102) were terminated 1. march 1975.
The engine of the rocket was the type Mk.36 Mod.8 (in later versions up to Mod.10). Guidance system AN/DSQ-29 had the sensor in the warhead with the sensor based on InSb (Indium antimonid) and cryogenic cooling with argon (USAF) or nitrogen (U.S. Navy). Completely new was even a warhead WDU-17/B with double-layer shell with předfragmentovanými shell fragments and filling of 9.4 kg of explosives. WDU-17/B is initiated by a laser intercept igniter DSU-15/B. Production commenced in 1976 and until their completion, gave the u.s. air force, navy, and users abroad about 16 000 missiles AIM-9L. The american producers were Ford Aerospace and Raytheon. The production of these missiles since the beginning of the eighties took place in Western Europe (in total there were produced about 3,500 missiles) and Japan (Mitsubishi). The main coordinator of european production was the German BGT, which alone to the missiles produced the guidance and control section. Other subcontractors included Snia Viscosa (fighting part), British Aerospace (wings, rudders, rollerony) and Raufoss Vapenfabrikk (rocket engine). Some of the components in Europe are not produced and were imported from the USA from Ford Aerospace. The initial operating capability version of the AIM-9L was for american users reached in 1978. Version of AIM-9Li-1 is the German modernization with increased resistance to IR interference.
AIM-9M
The missile was created in the framework of the modernization program missile version of the "Lima" (AIM-9L Product Improvement Program (PIP)). The successor version of the AIM-9L is in contrast characterized by an improved version of the engine Mk.36 reduced-smoke propellant, a new guidance section WGU-4/B, increased resistance to infrared interference and higher reliability. Missile tests were carried out in fiscal years 1978/1979. The production was company Raytheon started in the year 1982. Initial operating capability was achieved in the following year. "Mike" was produced in several subvariantách:
AIM-9M-1 - the version used by the navy and air force, the guidance section WGU-4A/B.
AIM-9M-2 - ?
AIM-9M-3 - version of the navy with guidance sections WGU-4A/B.
AIM-9M-4 - version of the navy with guidance sections WGU-4C/B.
AIM-9M-5 - the designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-4.
AIM-9M-6 - a variant of the navy with specific modifications to take account of use in the Persian gulf, the guidance section WGU-4D/B.
AIM-9M-7 - the designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-6.
AIM-9M-8 - version of the navy with increased resistance to infrared interference, the engine of the Mk.36 Mod.11 and the guidance section WGU-4E/B. Development testing lasted a year and were conducted from the third quarter of fiscal year 1991 at the Naval Air Warfare Center in China Lake. Troop tests were conducted in may 1993. In may 1995 initiated the introduction into the armament of the navy. The standard M-8 were adjusted to the older M-1 and M-3.
AIM-9M-9 - designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-8.
AIM-9M-10 - AIM-9M-8 adapted for use on airplanes F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the wings of the rocket made of a material with increased resistance to delamination, the front bracket of the rockets has increased resistance to wear.
AIM-9N
Marking shells intended for export purposes, which is based on the implementation of the AIM-9J. The engine is of the type Hercules-Aerojet Mk.17, the fighting part carries the designation Mk.54. Subversion AIM-9N-1 has a lighter DSU-21/B, AIM-9N-2 is fitted with a rocket engine SR116 and AIM-9N-3 AIM-9N-1 with the engine SR116.
AIM-9P
A modernized version based on the model of the AIM-9J-1 for the country, which for financial reasons could not buy the implementation of AIM-9L/M or they were not allowed to for political reasons. Although originally it was an export model, version P to your arsenal led the us air force. Initial operational capability missile in the u.s. air force has achieved in 1978. AIM-9P were produced as new, and modification of missiles, versions B / E / J. Total should be made on the 21 000 pieces of these missiles, which were manufactured in several modifications:
AIM-9P-1 - a missile with a laser igniter DSU-15/B.
AIM-9P-2 - a missile with an engine SR116 with a reduced-smoke propellant.
AIM-9P-3 - shot with the engine SR116 and improved the guidance and control parts.
AIM-9P-4 - všerakurzová subversion with the combat parts of the Mk.8, an improved engine SR116 and laser intercept lighter DSU-21/B, which was manufactured by the Research centre in Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara Research Center, a part of the company's Hughes). Version only for export.
AIM-9P-5 - subvarianta with improved resistance to infrared interference, lighter DSU-21/B.
AIM-9Q
The designation for an upgraded version of the us navy coming from the variations of M with improved guidance and control sections, only study.
AIM-9R
The development of this version was launched in 1986 and is based on the version M. The missile is equipped with a completely new sensor WGU-19/B with the significantly better parameters of the detection and tracking of targets. The first firing took place in 1990, two years later, the program was canceled. The navy originally planned on this standard to adjust the 6000 its Sidewinderů, however, the air force in September 1991, decided that the modernization will not engage (mainly due to price), which started the whole program existentially threatening. The definitive end was the lack of finance, that the navy decided to invest instead of to the AIM-9R in the development of anti-aircraft missiles AIM-152 AAAM (the successor to the AIM-54, this project was ultimately also canceled in 1992).
AIM-9S
Version of the AIM-9M with degradovanou resistance to IR interference intended for export users. The first and only (?) the user happened to Turkey.
AIM-9X
A joint program of the u.s. air force and the navy, who ran after the abolition of the production version of the AIM-9R and after the problems with the project shots asraam missiles. In 1994 she was in the program AIM-9X started the phase of Demonstration/Validation (demonstration and validation), into which engage the firm of Hughes and Raytheon. The winner was in December 1996 declared Hughes (who was later devoured by the Raytheonem). The initial test firing were launched in 1998. The first firing with the use of samonavedení against bezpilotnímu objectives QF-4 were held successfully in June 1999. The pre-series production was approved in September 2000. Operational capability in the us air force achieved the AIM-9X, in November 2003. In may of the following year was approved the serial production of the missiles. Even if version X builds on the implementation of M, the only thing they have these two shots more or less in common is the name, the engine of the Mk.36 and warhead WDU-17/B. Radically redesigned AIM-9X has extended viewing angle of the target capture, better manoeuvrability capabilities, the possibility of the use at a very short distance, the ability to intercept the target after launch and compatibility with přilbovým sight JHMCS (Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System). In September 2008, was made about 3000 pieces of this version.
Sources
1) Parsch, And.: Raytheon (Philco/General Electric) AAM-N-7/GAR-8/AIM-9 Sidewinder, Designation-Systems.net, 9 July 2008
2) Khol, M: Legend of the name Sidewinder, Revi 25
3) Jane's All the World's Aircraft, 1975
4) Jane's All The World's Aircraft, 1983
5) Jane's Air-Launched Weapons, Coulsdon, 2000
6) Jane's Air-Launched Weapons, Coulsdon, 2002
7) Team: McDonnell F-4 Phantom: Spirit in the Skies, Norwalk, 2002
8) Flight International, 14 March 1974
9) Flight International, 8 May 1975
10) Flight International, 30 May 1981
11) Flight International, 20 May 1982
12) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-9_Sidewinder
13) http://www.novia.net/~tomcat/AIM-9.html
14) http://www.sci.fi/~fta/aim9.html
15) http://www.f-16.net/f-16_armament_article1.html
16) www.scramble.nl
17) http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=78.
An overview of the versions
In 1946, launched a physicist of the u.s. navy William B. McLean at the Naval Ordnance Test Station (now Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake), located in california Inyokernu, research work entitled a Local project 602, at the end of which should be a heat-seeking missile for combat with enemy aircraft - essentially a rocket motor with payload and sensor of thermal radiation on the bow. He failed, however, to convince superiors to his project received appropriate funding, and so the development of initially spending most of his time in his garage, and bypassing šrotišť in Pasadena, where looking for the parts to build test equipment. In 1950 the McLeanovu efforts joined Howard Wilcox, and together they prepared the work entitled feasibility Studies 567, where was the invention described. In the meantime, work on the rocket, which in some respects was inspired in the German Enzianu, reached to such a stage that they could be in 1951, presented to admiral William Parsons, deputy director of the Department of armaments (Bureau of Ordnance). The following year they were working on a rocket already classified as a program.
As a result of the development work will eventually become aluminum "tube" long approximately 270 cm with a diameter of around 13 cm, which was driven by a rocket engine on solid fuel. At the stern were four wings, whose ends was placed a small stabilizing wheels, later patented under the name of the rolleron. In the bow under the glass cover was a sensor of infrared radiation on the basis of PbS (sulfide lead). The rest of the "tubes" filled out the massive electronics from the end of the forties.
The first test firing took place in 1951. The first hit of the air target was achieved on the fourteenth attempt. It occurred on the 11th. in September 1953, when the test rocket left the launching gear of the aeroplane A-1 Skyraider, piloted by Walter Schirrem, and hit an unmanned target QB-17 (it was a remote-controlled bomber B-17). In the same year was missile assigned the codename of the navy AAM-N-7 and the name of the Sidewinder by a poisonous desert snake (in English his name sounds rattlesnake horned). After comparative tests, the missile ship AIM-4 Falcon it into your loadout in 1956 established the us air force. According to the current manufacturer, the company Raytheon, reached missile range of the AIM-9 users worldwide approximately 270 kills.
XAAM-N-7
The designation of the prototype, that the serial version of the recalls only very remotely thanks to the rectangular kormidlům and wings, which was placed roughly at 2/3 of the length of the rocket.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder I
Shots from pre-production, in 1963, the designation changed to the AIM-9A.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IA
Indications for the rockets from the series production in 1963 was shot přeznačena on the AIM-9B.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IB
The variant with semi-active radar guidance system, in 1963 přeznačena on the AIM-9C.
AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IC
Version produced with INFRARED by entering, the dragon corresponds to the variant C, in 1963 přeznačena on the AIM-9D.
GAR-8
The designation for the Sidewinder IA used by the american airforce in 1962, there has been relabelling the AIM-9B.
AIM-9A
In the framework of the unification of the labelling of individual types of weaponry the u.s. armed forces was in 1963 the AIM-9A-labeled missiles AAM-N-7 Sidewinder from pre-production, produced by the company General Electric in 1955, to the armament of the navy were introduced in may 1956. Made, there were only 240.
AIM-9B
In the framework of the unification of the labelling of individual types of weaponry the u.s. armed forces was in 1963 the AIM-9B přeznačena serial missile AAM-N-7 Sidewinder IA, repektive GAR-8. Production to ensure the company's Philco (later Ford Aerospace and later Loral Aeronutronics), and General Electric. Missile initial operational capability for the u.s. navy achieved in 1956. Its powered by a rocket engine on the TPH Thiokol Mk.17, which after a period of 2.2 seconds to provide a move of 17.8 kN. Předfragmentovaná charge warhead Mk.8 had a mass of 4.5 kg and the effective efficiency of around 9 metres. In the activity it featured the gusty (Mk.303), or non-contact infrared lighter (Mk.304). Management and guidance part was the type Mk.1. Uncooled sensor based on PbS had a viewing angle of 25° and a speed of the monitoring target 11°/s. the AIM-9B could be on the nemanévrující target fired at distances of 900 to 4 800 meters and only from the back side (due to limitations arising from the sensitivity of the sensor). The rocket was also very sensitive to other sources of heat (sun, reflections from the ground), fog or rain. Aircraft-carrier in addition couldn't in the pitch maneuver with a larger multiplier than 2 g. Of the above restriction it follows, that this missile was primarily intended for the destruction of bombers of the opponent, in manévrovém duel between the fighters was its effectiveness problematic. Production of this version in the U.S. ran until 1962. Already made missile version B were later for the needs of the u.s. air force upgraded the standard variants of the E / J. AIM-9B was from the 1960 finalised to be built in the GERMAN company BGT (Bodensee Gerätetechnik) for the european NATO states. BGT was the final contractor and coordinator of the production, which ran not only in the Federal republic, but also in other parts of Europe. In the sixties ran the license production of these missiles under the designation Rb.24 also in Sweden. A copy of the AIM-9B marked R-3S fashioned the Soviet union. The AIM-9B is the first combat used anti-aircraft missile in the world, to the first duel occurred 24. September 1958 (see the text about R-3S).
AIM-9C
Version with semi-active radar homing system, which was created for the us navy as a response to the limited performances of the variants of the AIM-9B. Between the years 1965 to 1967 it was produced around 1000 pieces of this version. AIM-9C was used only on fighter aircraft F-8 Crusader, order against air targets to operate in any weather, without having to install radar compatible missile ship AIM-7 Sparrow. AIM-9C was equipped with a rocket motor Mk.36, combat parts of the Mk.48 and the lighter Mk.15. The range of missiles has been extended to 17,7 km. This variant of the very successful wasn't, and so the remaining AIM-9C was later modified to AIM-122A Sidearm.
AIM-9D
Even this version was created for the us navy as a response to the combat parameters version B. This version was planned to loadout their F-4D to implement even the u.s. air force. Problems with the development, however, caused delays, and so were in the arsenal of the Pheasant at first, integrated AIM-4D Falcon. After the Vietnam show martial ineffectiveness Falcons, was in the arsenal Pheasant the air force introduced the AIM-9E. AIM-9D was equipped with a new sensor-based PbS-cooled nitrogen (that was placed in the bottle of a volume of 6 liters in the drain equipment LAU-7). The viewing angle of the sensor was 40°, the speed of the tracking target was increased to 12°/s. the Cover of the sensor was made of a material based on MgF2 (fluoride magnesium). The guidance system was the type Mk.18. Better shaped bow in addition has lowered aerodynamic resistance and thus, together with the new engine Hercules Mk.36, to increase the range of the projectile. Similarly, as the version B, and the AIM-9D could be on target odpalována only from its rear side. Between the years 1965 to 1969 was the companies Philco-Ford and Raytheon manufactured around 1000 units of this version.
AIM-9E
The AIM-9E was created for the u.s. air force modernisation of the already manufactured missiles version B, because the development of completely new AIM-9D picked up late. Reduce the costs of the introduction, because they may not have extensively replacing the discharge device, and means for handling and maintenance. "Echo" compared to the AIM-9B was characterised by improved parameters for combat at low altitudes. The new sensor was cooled thermo-electrically to the principle of the Peltier phenomenon. The speed of the tracking target was thanks to the new electronics increased to 16.5°/s. the Maximum range accounted for about 4.2 km. The standard was modified about 5,000 missiles AIM-9B. Initial operational capability reached in 1967. Subvarianta AIM-9E-2 was equipped with an engine SR116 with a reduced-smoke propellant.
AIM-9F
The western european variant of the Sidewinderu. This version is based on the AIM-9B, compared to which has a new guidance system FGW Mod.2 from the German BGT with an infrared sensor, which was chilled with carbon dioxide. High-frequency circuits in the missile were made on the basis of semiconductors (at the AIM-9B have been an electron). The result was improved parameters at low altitudes and higher resistance to infrared interference. Development took place between the years 1965 to 1969. Into operational service introduced in 1969, this standard was later modified missiles AIM-9B, the majority of european users.
AIM-9G
Comes from variants of the AIM-9D. The biggest difference was the system of the extended capture target SEAM (Sidewinder Expanded Acquisition Mode), which would eventually become the standard in the following versions Sidewinderu. Sensor rocket was spřaženo with the radar aircraft, which allowed it to be aimed directly at the target before the shot. Thanks it didn't have the attacking fighter to get the target to the axis of the reticle, but the only button placed the marker on the selected target. In previous versions was the head firmly fixed with the axis of the projectile. For the needs of the navy by the company was Raytheon manufactured 2120 pieces. Production took place between the years 1970 to 1972.
AIM-9H
Version developed on basis of AIM-9G for the navy in order to increase reliability and reduce maintenance. The differences included the use solely of semiconductor components in the guidance and control of missiles. This positive effect on reliability because shocks during take-off and landing on aircraft carriers should be on the electronic parts of older Sidewinderů adverse effect. Reduced the minimum value of the range. The rocket engine was the type Mk.36. Amplified were servo motors controlling the helm of the rockets. The speed of the tracking target was increased to 20°/s. Modified was also the algorithm of the guidance section, a rocket now it was with the "advance", so that the target hit more in front. The maximum range was around for 17.7 miles. Initial operational capability reached in 1973. Between the years 1972 to 1974 was the companies Philco-Ford and Raytheon produced 7720 missiles for the u.s. navy. In the budget in the fiscal year 1976 requested the u.s. air force for the supply of 800 missiles of this type (whether the delivery actually occurred failed to verify).
AIM-9J
The successor of the version "Echo", which was the range of the partially sacrificed in favor of speed. The increased duration of the flight allowed new longer burning generator gas. Amplified were servo motors controlling the helm of the rockets. New was also the engine with the type designation Thiokol Mk.17. Although in this embodiment to apply the semiconductor, compared to the version H was the AIM-9J is still partially equipped with elektronkovými components. Lighters were either of the types of Mk.303 (gusty) and Mk.304 (non-contact), or one combination of the Mk.303 Mod.4. "Juliet" could be fired from an aeroplane flying at a multiple of up to 7.5 g. The production was started in the year 1972, in the same year in July were the u.s. air force the first missiles used in combat in the Vietnam war. AIM-9J initial operational capability reached reportedly up to 1977 (?). The J version was produced newly, however, a considerable part of the shots of this version originated modifications of already produced missiles AIM-9B and AIM-9E. In the mid-seventies was standing conversion options B to J about 7000 us dollars. The standard AIM-9J should be adjusted 590 missiles AIM-9B from the state of the air force and 1410 missiles of the same version, which the air force acquired from the arsenal of the navy. In 1973 was launched the production version of the AIM-9J-1, which differentiate the new laser non-contact igniter DSU-15/B, the algorithm for homing missiles with "advance" and probably the electronics built already completely based on semiconductors. This version was produced over 7000 pieces. Were later versions of the J-2 (this is the AIM-9J with the engine SR116) and J-3 (AIM-9J-1 with rocket engine SR116). Company Philco-Ford (from the 1976 Ford Aerospace) was a total made / adjusted to approximately 13 000 rockets the J version. AIM-9J (resp. N) were also manufactured under license in Sweden under the designation Rb.24J.
AIM-9K
Version developed at the Naval Weapons Centre in China Lake as an alternative to the AIM-9L. Nevyráběna.
AIM-9L
In 1971, the u.s. air force and navy agreed on the joint development of a new generation of Sidewinderu, which should be based on variants of the AIM-9H. The main objective was to develop a všerakurzovou anti-aircraft guided missile for use against sharply manévrujícím objectives. Its development was terminated in the beginning of the year 1975. Shooting tests (including shooting against the target PQM-102) were terminated 1. march 1975.
The engine of the rocket was the type Mk.36 Mod.8 (in later versions up to Mod.10). Guidance system AN/DSQ-29 had the sensor in the warhead with the sensor based on InSb (Indium antimonid) and cryogenic cooling with argon (USAF) or nitrogen (U.S. Navy). Completely new was even a warhead WDU-17/B with double-layer shell with předfragmentovanými shell fragments and filling of 9.4 kg of explosives. WDU-17/B is initiated by a laser intercept igniter DSU-15/B. Production commenced in 1976 and until their completion, gave the u.s. air force, navy, and users abroad about 16 000 missiles AIM-9L. The american producers were Ford Aerospace and Raytheon. The production of these missiles since the beginning of the eighties took place in Western Europe (in total there were produced about 3,500 missiles) and Japan (Mitsubishi). The main coordinator of european production was the German BGT, which alone to the missiles produced the guidance and control section. Other subcontractors included Snia Viscosa (fighting part), British Aerospace (wings, rudders, rollerony) and Raufoss Vapenfabrikk (rocket engine). Some of the components in Europe are not produced and were imported from the USA from Ford Aerospace. The initial operating capability version of the AIM-9L was for american users reached in 1978. Version of AIM-9Li-1 is the German modernization with increased resistance to IR interference.
AIM-9M
The missile was created in the framework of the modernization program missile version of the "Lima" (AIM-9L Product Improvement Program (PIP)). The successor version of the AIM-9L is in contrast characterized by an improved version of the engine Mk.36 reduced-smoke propellant, a new guidance section WGU-4/B, increased resistance to infrared interference and higher reliability. Missile tests were carried out in fiscal years 1978/1979. The production was company Raytheon started in the year 1982. Initial operating capability was achieved in the following year. "Mike" was produced in several subvariantách:
AIM-9M-1 - the version used by the navy and air force, the guidance section WGU-4A/B.
AIM-9M-2 - ?
AIM-9M-3 - version of the navy with guidance sections WGU-4A/B.
AIM-9M-4 - version of the navy with guidance sections WGU-4C/B.
AIM-9M-5 - the designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-4.
AIM-9M-6 - a variant of the navy with specific modifications to take account of use in the Persian gulf, the guidance section WGU-4D/B.
AIM-9M-7 - the designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-6.
AIM-9M-8 - version of the navy with increased resistance to infrared interference, the engine of the Mk.36 Mod.11 and the guidance section WGU-4E/B. Development testing lasted a year and were conducted from the third quarter of fiscal year 1991 at the Naval Air Warfare Center in China Lake. Troop tests were conducted in may 1993. In may 1995 initiated the introduction into the armament of the navy. The standard M-8 were adjusted to the older M-1 and M-3.
AIM-9M-9 - designation of the u.s. air force for AIM-9M-8.
AIM-9M-10 - AIM-9M-8 adapted for use on airplanes F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the wings of the rocket made of a material with increased resistance to delamination, the front bracket of the rockets has increased resistance to wear.
AIM-9N
Marking shells intended for export purposes, which is based on the implementation of the AIM-9J. The engine is of the type Hercules-Aerojet Mk.17, the fighting part carries the designation Mk.54. Subversion AIM-9N-1 has a lighter DSU-21/B, AIM-9N-2 is fitted with a rocket engine SR116 and AIM-9N-3 AIM-9N-1 with the engine SR116.
AIM-9P
A modernized version based on the model of the AIM-9J-1 for the country, which for financial reasons could not buy the implementation of AIM-9L/M or they were not allowed to for political reasons. Although originally it was an export model, version P to your arsenal led the us air force. Initial operational capability missile in the u.s. air force has achieved in 1978. AIM-9P were produced as new, and modification of missiles, versions B / E / J. Total should be made on the 21 000 pieces of these missiles, which were manufactured in several modifications:
AIM-9P-1 - a missile with a laser igniter DSU-15/B.
AIM-9P-2 - a missile with an engine SR116 with a reduced-smoke propellant.
AIM-9P-3 - shot with the engine SR116 and improved the guidance and control parts.
AIM-9P-4 - všerakurzová subversion with the combat parts of the Mk.8, an improved engine SR116 and laser intercept lighter DSU-21/B, which was manufactured by the Research centre in Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara Research Center, a part of the company's Hughes). Version only for export.
AIM-9P-5 - subvarianta with improved resistance to infrared interference, lighter DSU-21/B.
AIM-9Q
The designation for an upgraded version of the us navy coming from the variations of M with improved guidance and control sections, only study.
AIM-9R
The development of this version was launched in 1986 and is based on the version M. The missile is equipped with a completely new sensor WGU-19/B with the significantly better parameters of the detection and tracking of targets. The first firing took place in 1990, two years later, the program was canceled. The navy originally planned on this standard to adjust the 6000 its Sidewinderů, however, the air force in September 1991, decided that the modernization will not engage (mainly due to price), which started the whole program existentially threatening. The definitive end was the lack of finance, that the navy decided to invest instead of to the AIM-9R in the development of anti-aircraft missiles AIM-152 AAAM (the successor to the AIM-54, this project was ultimately also canceled in 1992).
AIM-9S
Version of the AIM-9M with degradovanou resistance to IR interference intended for export users. The first and only (?) the user happened to Turkey.
AIM-9X
A joint program of the u.s. air force and the navy, who ran after the abolition of the production version of the AIM-9R and after the problems with the project shots asraam missiles. In 1994 she was in the program AIM-9X started the phase of Demonstration/Validation (demonstration and validation), into which engage the firm of Hughes and Raytheon. The winner was in December 1996 declared Hughes (who was later devoured by the Raytheonem). The initial test firing were launched in 1998. The first firing with the use of samonavedení against bezpilotnímu objectives QF-4 were held successfully in June 1999. The pre-series production was approved in September 2000. Operational capability in the us air force achieved the AIM-9X, in November 2003. In may of the following year was approved the serial production of the missiles. Even if version X builds on the implementation of M, the only thing they have these two shots more or less in common is the name, the engine of the Mk.36 and warhead WDU-17/B. Radically redesigned AIM-9X has extended viewing angle of the target capture, better manoeuvrability capabilities, the possibility of the use at a very short distance, the ability to intercept the target after launch and compatibility with přilbovým sight JHMCS (Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System). In September 2008, was made about 3000 pieces of this version.
Sources
1) Parsch, And.: Raytheon (Philco/General Electric) AAM-N-7/GAR-8/AIM-9 Sidewinder, Designation-Systems.net, 9 July 2008
2) Khol, M: Legend of the name Sidewinder, Revi 25
3) Jane's All the World's Aircraft, 1975
4) Jane's All The World's Aircraft, 1983
5) Jane's Air-Launched Weapons, Coulsdon, 2000
6) Jane's Air-Launched Weapons, Coulsdon, 2002
7) Team: McDonnell F-4 Phantom: Spirit in the Skies, Norwalk, 2002
8) Flight International, 14 March 1974
9) Flight International, 8 May 1975
10) Flight International, 30 May 1981
11) Flight International, 20 May 1982
12) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIM-9_Sidewinder
13) http://www.novia.net/~tomcat/AIM-9.html
14) http://www.sci.fi/~fta/aim9.html
15) http://www.f-16.net/f-16_armament_article1.html
16) www.scramble.nl
17) http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=78.