Warheads and Propulsion
The defence authorities need to assess how new technology can be applied in future weapon systems, what the limitations are and what implications there may be both in terms of threats and new possibilities.
Tools for this purpose are provided by FOI’s research in the field of warheads and propulsion systems, both key components of weapon systems.
This FOI department engages in research in the area of launch and propulsion technology, warhead technology with the main focus on shaped charges and high-power microwave (HPM) warheads as well as submarine technology (hydrodynamics, signatures, weapons and protection). The scientific work is based on the development of theoretical and numerical models supported by comprehensive experimental activities.
Essential areas of expertise include propellant combustion, detonics, pulsed electrical power and the effects on, and flow round, military platforms and weapon systems. These activities benefit from access to unique experimental facilities and well-developed test methods. As a basis for this research work, there is a body of expertise relating to rapid deformations in solid materials, measuring techniques for recording such processes, interactions between fluids, gases and solid materials, turbulence modelling, electrodynamics, combustion and plasma physics, numerical methods and computer technology.
Assignments are received primarily from the Swedish Armed Forces and from the Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) but work is also undertaken for civilian agencies such as the Swedish Space Corporation and the Swedish Nuclear Power Inspectorate. There is wide-ranging cooperation with universities, colleges and other research organisations both in Sweden and abroad.