AERIAL DROP BOMBS

Aerial drop bombs are divided into classes according to the use for which they are intended. There are three general types, viz, high-capacity (demolition), fragmentation, and incendiary, of which have been designed and equipped to meet the requirements abroad. Changes are constantly being made in details, such as the method of suspension, to make possible the use of the bombs in new release mechanisms and planes.

High-capacity drop bombs, so called because of the large ratio of the weight of the explosive to the weight of the casing, are used for general demolition purposes. The targets engaged include fortified positions, railroad terminals and lines, heavy structures of all kinds, supply depots, ammunition dumps, etc.

Fragmentation bombs are used against personnel, such as troops in the field or on the march, or wherever the protection afforded is slight. These bombs carry a relatively small charge of explosive in a heavy steel casing and depend for their effect on the fragmentation of this casing.

Incendiary bombs are used for incendiary purposes against am unition dumps, aerodromes, grain fields, etc. There are two types, the scatter and the intensive.

Dummy drop bombs are used for instructional purposes.



SAFETY FEATURES

All bombs of the above types are provided with a safety feature which consists of a pin so arranged that when left in the bomb no explosion will take place when the bomb is dropped, but if pulled out the bomb will explode on contact.



HIGH-CAPACITY DROP BOMBS

The Mark I high-capacity bomb is provided with two new type firing mechanisms, one in the tail and one in the nose; the latter may be omitted when desired. These firing mechanisms may be arranged to explode instantaneously or after a delay of one-fourth second or two seconds. This bomb is provided with a nose loop for vertical suspension, two side carrying loops for the American suspension, and an auxiliary loop on the side for the British horizontal release mechanisms. It may also be carried in the Mark V release.

The Mark II and III high-capacity bombs are provided with a single firing mechanism near the tail. This consists of a movable member, carrying the primerer and detonator, which upon release from the plane slides down a central tube until it rests on the firing pin. On contact the de tonator is driven forward and the firing pin sets off the primer.

The Mark IV, V, and VI-A high capacity bombs are provided for the heaviest grade of demolition work. They are provided with two firing mechanisms, one in the nose and one in the tail, and with two side carrying loops for the American release mechanism in addition to one side loop for adaptation to the British release mechanism. The Mark IV is also provided with a nose loop for the British vertical release mechanism.

The Mark I-A and V-A high capacity bombs are similar in details to the Mark I and respectively, except that heavier casings are used throughout.

The Mark IV-A, high capacity drop bomb, also has a heavy casing and with the exception of the firing mechanism is a duplicate of the French 100 kilo bomb.