Description
This is a distress signal from grounded planes.
The Pyrotechnic Pistol AN-M8 or Hand Projector M9 is used for firing the flare.
The cylindrical, aluminum outer case has an extraction groove at the end containing the primer. A press-fit identification top is cemented to the end opposite the primer and has the embossed letters “R.P.” for night identification. This cartridge is classified by the Army as the rimless type.
The Army has other parachute signals which are similar to the Mil. These are obsolete or limited standard items:
White Star, Parachute, M10 - WP
White Star. Blinker Parachute, M15 - WB
Green Star, Blinker Parachute M16 - GB
Red Star, Cluster, M14 - RS
Functioning
The firing pin of the pistol sets off the primer, igniting the propelling charge. The propelling charge ignites the delay fuse and propels the inner case outward. The delay fuse burns for 2.5 seconds and ignites the expelling charge, which in turn ignites the candle and expels the candle and parachute from the inner case.
See Also
Nothing else to see.
Source(s)
OP 1664, Volume 1 - US Explosive Ordnance (1947)
