Design and Dynamics Simulation Analysis of a Locking Mechanism for Tube-Launched Loitering Munition

This paper proposes a locking mechanism for a tube-launched loitering munition within launch tube. The mechanism adopts a tandem axial configuration comprising a “gas generator + obturator + loitering munition” to achieve reliable positioning and locking of the loitering munition. Based on the munition’s locking/release mechanism during launch and the topological relationships among core components, a launch dynamics model was established for simulation. Simulation results show that: when gas pressure in the launch tube reaches a predetermined threshold, the obturator separates from the gas generator. Propelled by the gas, both the obturator and loitering munition advance synchronously. The munition’s exit velocity and attitude meet takeoff requirements. After exiting the tube, the obturator rapidly separates from the munition, without compromising activation of the propulsion system.