Introduction

The NLAW employs a blunt nose design optimized for shaped charge performance rather than aerodynamic efficiency, raising questions about potential drag reduction through nose shape modification. This project utilizes ANSYS Discovery's parametric modeling and real-time CFD capabilities to systematically compare blunt, medium ogive, and long ogive Nose Configurations across  120 m/s speed. The analysis reveals pressure distribution trade-offs and stability implications, demonstrating Discovery's effectiveness for rapid aerodynamic design exploration.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the aerodynamic behavior of different nose configurations on the NLAW missile using ANSYS Discovery's parametric modeling and real-time CFD analysis. The primary focus is evaluating how shape variations impact pressure distribution and flow characteristics at operational speeds. Additionally, the project demonstrates efficient parametric workflows through History Tracking and automated enclosure sizing to maintain consistent simulation domains across design iterations, providing insights into the aerodynamic trade-offs inherent in the NLAW's current blunt nose philosophy.

Results and Discussion

ANSYS Discovery's CFD analysis of  reveals distinct aerodynamic behaviors across different NLAW missile nose configurations. The bluntest nose exhibits the largest stagnation pressure at the leading edge, which is ideal for shaped charge performance. Ogive profiles show more focused high-pressure regions, providing modest drag benefits at subsonic speeds. The parametric workflow using History Tracking and expression-based enclosures proved highly effective for consistent design iteration, validating Discovery's capabilities for rapid aerodynamic exploration.