Status and Context of High Altitude Precision Aerial Delivery Systems

Abstract

Over the last several years, research funding has been applied to developing autonomously guided parachute systems as one part of the technology to meet the challenges posed by two critical threats: 1) the proliferation of Man Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) that threaten aircraft conducting low-altitude supply missions; and 2) the parallel proliferation of threats to ground supply lines. This paper will survey the most prominent precision delivery guided airdrop systems in development and/or limited operational use today. User performance requirements and capability goals will be discussed. Flight test and operational experience will be briefly reviewed, as well as future deployment plans. The paper will conclude with a characterization of how well existing systems meet the user needs, and what GN&C-related technical capabilities still need advancement.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 2006
Accession Number
ADA600265

Entities

People

  • Steve Tavan

Organizations

  • United States Army Soldier Systems Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Delivery
  • Aeronautics
  • Air Drop Operations
  • Air Force
  • Aircrafts
  • Altitude
  • Control Systems
  • Defense Systems
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Guidance
  • High Altitude
  • Inertial Measurement Units
  • Inertial Navigation
  • Inertial Navigation Systems
  • Measurement
  • Navigation
  • United States Special Operations Command

Readers

  • Strategic Security Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.