Parts obsolescence mitigation in the Harpoon modulator

Parts obsolescence has initiated an investigation by the Harpoon Program into a new modulator design for the output RF oscillator electron tube (Magnetron). The new modulator design would require full program development including reliability and environmental screening and life cycle determination. Prototyping and production schedule are factors which would also contribute to a lengthy and costly development program. Following the current trend to out-source the new modulator results in the loss of jobs, reduces company revenue, and eliminates the opportunity for RTIS to make a value added contribution. This paper outlines the proposal to keep the current modulator which has proven to be right for the application, and introduces only minor design changes to overcome the problem of parts obsolescence