X vs + missile flight profiles

[WelshZeCorgi]

When the Phoenix is fired, it seems to maintain its X orientation as it flies. When the sparrow is fired, it seems to maintain a + orientation during flight. Is this a DCS-ism or do missile really try to maintain certain orientations during flight? And if they do, what are the differences between an X and a +?

[probad]

imagine if i made you shoot a target while rolling over on the ground and then chastised you for missing

youd tell me to sod right off and just let you stay in whichever position you started in

Edited March 16, 2021 by probad

[dundun92]

This is how they work IRL, yes. Its done for aerodynamic reasons, e.g the X configuration would provide more upwards lift than the +. Also, at least IRL, the sparrow does hold the X, not a +:

[G.J.S]

Roll 45 degrees left or right, then fire a Phoenix . . . It will be “+” relative to the horizon then.

 

Hint - Look at how they are mounted.

 

Missiles have relatively simple flight laws - they won’t roll to pull etc. They just pull.

There is no need to roll to re orientate. If they are launched in a “X” orientation, and require a left pull to track, they use a combination of all vanes to effect that pull.

If launched in “+” then for the same effect, only 2 vanes - or same axis vanes need to move for the same.

If they come off in an X from a pallet, they will pretty much stay that way until fusing out.

Edited March 22, 2021 by garyscott