Part 3 - Rockets; Chapter 5: IntroductionPart 3 - Rockets; Chapter 5: 1-lb. Signal Rocket Mk III (Service)
BRITISH EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE
Part 3 - Chapter 5
Pyrotechnic Rockets

Kite-Launching Rocket Mk II (Service)

Data

Over-all length

10.25 in.

Maximum diameter

1.25 in.

General: These rockets are used to enable kites to be raised easily from emergency dinghies. They are fired from a 1-in. signal pistol fitted with a barrel extension.

Description: The main rocket propellant composition is contained in the case, the nose of which is closed by a wooden plug and a layer of clay. The after end of the case houses a plaster-of-paris choke, which is covered by a millboard washer and a paper disc. A conical vent in the rocket propellant is aligned with a hole through the choke. The end of the vent nearest the choke is coated with gunpowder priming.

The rocket is fixed in a bridle having a hinged stirrup, to which is attached a 2-ft. wire cable. During flight, the cable end nearest the rocket is protected from heat by an as-bestos sheath. The free end of the cable carries a loop for connection with the kite two-line.

The rocket is painted aluminum over-all, with manufacturing and filling information stencilled on the case in black letters.

Operation: When the pistol, loaded with rocket and cartridge, is fired, the flash from the cartridge ignites the gunpowder priming in the rocket, and the priming ignites the rocket propellant composition. The rocket travels upwards for a distance of about 200 ft. until the kite flying line is almost pid out. The kite-cover retaining pins, which are atta-ched pins, which are attached to the kite flying line, are then withdrawn. The kite opens automatically, and the kite cover falls away. The flying line then withdraws a split pin connecting the rocket tow-line to the top of the kite, and the rocket is separated from the kite.

Figure 215 – Kite-Launching Rocket Mk II

Part 3 - Rockets; Chapter 5: IntroductionPart 3 - Rockets; Chapter 5: 1-lb. Signal Rocket Mk III (Service)