Method and means for augmenting hypervelocity flight

Abstract

A process and means for augmenting hypervelocity flight of a projectile. A projectile is initially propelled at supersonic velocities through a tube containing a gaseous medium and lined with a chemically explosive propellant responsive to high temperatures and pressures. Movement of the projectile produces a high temperature and pressure shock wave in the gaseous medium which is reflected off the propellant lining beside the projectile and detonates the lining. Detonation of the propellant will generate a high pressure gas impinged upon the aft portion of the projectile to accelerate it. As the projectile is moved down the tube, this process is continuously repeated to continuously accelerate the projectile.