MAgneto Hydrodynamic Explosive Munition (MAHEM)

Program Manager: Mr. Roger Hall

Overview

The Magneto Hydrodynamic Explosive Munition (MAHEM) program will demonstrate compressed magnetic flux generator (CMFG)-driven magneto hydrodynamically formed metal jets and self-forging penetrators (SFP) with significantly improved performance over explosively formed jets and fragments.  Explosively formed jets (EFJ) and SFP are used for precision strike against targets such as armored vehicles and reinforced structures.  Current technology uses chemical explosive energy to form the jets and fragments.  This is highly inefficient and requires precise machining of the metal liners from which the fragments and jets are formed.  Generating multiple jets or fragments from a single explosive is difficult, and the timing of the multiple jets or fragments cannot be controlled.  MAHEM offers the potential for higher efficiency, greater control, the ability to generate and accurately time multiple jets and fragments from a single charge, and the potential for aimable, multiple warheads with a much higher EFJ velocity, hence increased lethality and kill precision, than conventional EFJ/SFP.  MAHEM could be packaged into a missile, projectile or other platform and delivered close to target for final engagement and kill.  This could provide the warfighter with a means to address stressing missions such as: lightweight active self-protection for vehicles (potential defeat mechanism for a kinetic energy round), counter armor (passive, reactive, and active), mine countermeasures, and anti-ship cruise missile final layer of defense.

Last Updated: 02/18/08