| M2 | |
| Origin: | United States |
| Type: | Anti-aircraft target rocket |
| Is Missile: | yes |
| Used By: | United States Army |
| Spec Label: | M2 |
| Weight: | 35.1lb |
| Length: | 4feet |
| Diameter: | 3.25inches |
| Engine: | Solid-fuel rocket |
| Vehicle Range: | 1700yd |
| Speed: | 560ft/s |
| Guidance: | None |
| Propellant: | solvent extruded double base powder |
| Boost: | 0.25 sec |
The Anti-Aircraft Target Rocket M2 was a 3.25inch rocket developed and used by the United States Army during World War II. It was designed to serve as a training target for anti-aircraft guns, capable of simulating attacks by low-flying aircraft.[1] [2] The nosecone of the rocket was ogival,[1] and it was fitted with oversized fins to aid in tracking of the rocket by trainees.[1] [3]
Shipped with two to three rockets in a package, the Target Rocket Projector M1 was used for the rocket's launching platform.[2] It consisted of a set of launching rails on a two-wheeled trailer and weighed 750lb;[4] capable of being elevated to 60 degrees,[4] it allowed the rocket to be launched at random angles and directions to increase the effectiveness of the training exercises,[1] and could fire up to two rounds per minute.[4] A modification of the basic rocket, designated as the Anti-Aircraft Training Rocket M2A1, replaced the basic M2 in service; it added a flare that ignited on launch to aid in visual tracking of the target that burned for approximately 30 seconds after launch.[5]