The German R4M unguided air-to-air rocket was developed near the end of World War II and briefly deployed on the Messerschmitt Me 262 jet fighter. It was designed to replace the increasingly heavy cannons needed to shoot down Anglo-American heavy bombers, as well as larger air-to-air rocket systems that created a lot of drag. The slim profile of the R4M and its folding fins, which sprung out upon leaving the aircraft, greatly reduced aerodynamic drag on the fighter. The warhead contained 520 g (17.6 oz) of Hexogen high explosive, which would likely destroy a bomber with one hit. Each fighter would carry up to 24 rockets, to be fired in four salvos, saturating a box to ensure a hit.
The Smithsonian received this rocket from the Deutsches Museum in 2018.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
Germany
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
Unknown
Physical Description
cylindrical rocket, body with 8 folding fins and tapering warhead with fuse, silver color, bare metal; fing retainer for folding fins, bracket for launch rack
Dimensions
3-D (Overall): 81.9 × 6.3 × 6.3cm, 2kg (2 ft. 8 1/4 in. × 2 1/2 in. × 2 1/2 in., 4.5lb.)
Materials
Ferrous Alloy
Copper Alloy
Ink
Coated Paper
Adhesive
Unknown Coating
Inventory Number
A20190325000
Credit Line
Gift of the Deutsches Museum von Heisterwerten der Naturwissanschaft und Technik (AdoeR), Munich, Germany
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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