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Advanced Inertial Reference Sphere

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The Advanced Inertial Reference Sphere, or AIRS, is a highly accurate inertial guidance system designed for use in the LGM-118A Peacekeeper ICBM and later the Minuteman III.

Details

AIRS is a fluid stabilized system, as opposed to one using gimbals. It consists of a beryllium sphere floating in fluid. This not only eliminates the problem of gimbal lock, but also makes it extremely accurate, accurate enough so any further improvement would give a negligible benefit to the missile's CEP. However, it is extremely expensive.

Usage

The AIRS was originally developed for the LGM-118A Peacekeeper. The first AIRS's were manufactured by [[Northrop Grumman |Northrup]]. After the US phased out the Peacekeeper in accordance with the START II, it was decided to retrofit the remaining fleet of Minuteman IIIs with AIRS. As a result, 652 additional units were purchased, and built by Rockwell.