UAV Ammunition: New Power and Challenges on the Modern Battlefield

Sunkye's connector technology provides crucial support for the rapid response, high survivability, and sustained combat capability of intelligent ammunition weapon platforms.

When evaluating an intelligent ammunition weapon platform, it’s essential not only to consider its range, power, and accuracy but also to focus on the platform's rapid response, survivability, and sustained combat capability. The development of high-quality intelligent ammunition weapon systems requires integrated design of both the launch platform and the intelligent ammunition. This includes control integration, energy integration, and ensuring compatibility with driving and launch stability under variable load conditions. Achieving optimal matching and strong adaptability of launch technology is key to successful performance.

As an emerging force in modern air combat, drones are increasingly becoming embedded in the battlefield, thanks to their characteristics of zero casualties, non-contact, and remote combat. Their role has expanded from "observation" to "attack" or "observation and attack integration." The guided bombs carried by drones have become critical components on the battlefield, adapting to the demands of intelligence and networking. These munitions are equipped with data communication, information acquisition, and processing capabilities. They can autonomously discover, identify, and track targets, as well as share target information through networks. In some cases, they can even autonomously select targets for attack.

However, drones face challenges due to their limited payload capacity and long hover times over target areas. This requires a reduction in connector size and mass to ensure optimal performance. The interconnect system must also be designed for long-term durability, resistance to condensation corrosion (particularly on mating contacts), and resilience to engine-induced vibrations and potential weapon vibrations. Connectors must be able to connect and disconnect quickly and securely to ensure that smart munitions can be released from the drone with minimal shock, preserving the drone's integrity.

To facilitate the integration of munitions into drones, high-performance connectors such as MIL-DTL-38999 Series III, MIL-DTL-83513, and other military-grade connectors are required. These connectors support the precise communication and energy transmission needed for reliable operation in harsh conditions.

Sunkye's R04A Series Micro-D connectors offer configurations that include wired assemblies and straight or 90° PCB mount connectors. With twisted pin contacts and a compact 1.27mm x 1.1mm pitch, these connectors provide primary signal transmission and power access within their electrical connection structure. They are ultra-small, lightweight, and highly resistant to shock and vibration.

Sunkye’s D38999 Series III connectors feature removable contacts in sizes #22, #20, #16, and #12. Specifically developed for aerospace fuselage applications, these connectors are designed to interconnect communications and avionics equipment that are subject to high shock, vibration, moisture, and extreme temperatures. They are reliable even under the demanding conditions of high-altitude flight.

With the rapid development of drone technology, we can expect the emergence of specially designed types of drone munitions in the future, potentially leading a new trend in military technology.