Logistics Enabler for Distributed Forces
Abstract
The Advanced Logistics Delivery System (ALDS) is an advanced sea-based concept capable of providing rapid sustainment of goods and supply to dispersed military forces maneuvering ashore. The system consists of a shipboard mechanical launcher and an autonomous, unmanned glider designed to transport cargo such as food, ammunition, fuel and water. The glider is accelerated to high speed by the launcher. During its steep ascent, the kinetic energy provided to the glider by the launcher is converted into potential energy until the glider reaches its maximum altitude. The vehicle then glides at relatively slow speed to the delivery point. Onboard avionics control and guide the glider throughout its flight. This report provides an overview of the ALDS concept, a description of an innovative flying wing design for the ALDS glider, an overview of the launch ship design and identifies capability gaps for the technology. Two variants of the ALDS concept have been previously studied' at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division. The study focused on a catapult launched, fixed wing glider similar to recreational gliders and an air-dropped glider with inflatable wings. The study concluded that the catapult launched glider lacked sufficient range. Consequently, the preferred ALDS was determined to be an inflatable wing glider capable of launch via helicopter, fixed wing aircraft, or rocket at sufficient altitude to provide militarily useful range. Major limitations of such a concept are its dependence on high value manned aircraft, the operational complexity of handling and launching relatively large rockets at sea, and a relatively low cargo delivery rate.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA476380
Entities
People
- Colen Kennell
- Geoff Hope
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division