Patent ID: 7905182

Claim:
An aft module assembly for connecting to one of at least two different types of mission specific forward modules to form a ballistically fired projectile, comprising: a common assembly module, comprising: a guidance electronics unit adapted to: communicatively interface with the at least two different types of mission specific forward modules; control a first mission capability of the projectile when connected to a first type of mission specific forward module and control a second mission capability of the projectile when connected to a second type of mission specific forward module; an explosive element; a mechanical coupling element configured to selectively and interchangeably couple the common assembly module to the at least two different types of mission specific forward modules; and an electrical coupling element configured to selectively and interchangeably link the guidance electronics unit to the at least two different types of mission specific forward modules; and a munition cartridge casing coupled to and enclosing at least a portion of the common assembly module, wherein the cartridge casing is configured to decouple from the common assembly module substantially concurrently with a firing of the projectile.