Slide 41 of 51
Title: M26A1 Extended Range Rocket (ER MLRS)
Special Instructions: Refer to static display and point out differences.
Dialogue: The extended range rocket is an evolution of the basic M26 rocket that extends the range to 45 km. This extended range is achieved through a 20% reduction in the number of submunitions and a modified rocket motor (additional propellant). ER rocket accuracy is enhanced by an improved rocket detent located in the launch tube. This zero force detent (ZFD) uses two explosive bolts that detonate soon after the motor fires. The ZFD replaces the present arrangement of necked down bolts that hold the rocket in place as the 12,000 lbs of thrust builds up. This causes the launcher to rock forwards, resulting in more than half the total launch error. The effectiveness of the ER rocket is maintained by a decrease in the dud rate, made possible through an improved drag ribbon and the incorporation of a self-destruct fuse (reduces dud rate to less than 1%).