Patent ID: 7032521

Claim:
A multi-mode missile, comprising: a plurality of submunitions; a mode setting device which sets an operating mode of the plurality of submunitions contained in the multi-mode missile to selectively be in one of a penetrator mode, a distributed penetrator mode, or a separation mode, wherein, in the penetrator mode, the plurality of submunitions are essentially conjoined in a common triggering arrangement, wherein, in the distributed penetrator mode, the plurality of submunitions are subjected to a relatively minor dispersion with respect to each other and are actuated in sequence as a penetration of a target comprising plural confined spaces progresses, wherein, in the separation mode, the plurality of submunitions sequentially leave the missile in a relatively large dispersal pattern and are thereafter individually actuated by a plurality of associated fazes each selected from the group consisting of an impact fuze, a proximity fine, and a time fine; one or more triggering devices which detonates one or more of the plurality of submunitions; and means for programming the mode setting device, wherein the means for programming the mode setting device receives an actuation signal via a communications link.