Differential GPS improves domestic and international flight test and evaluation applications

Abstract

Advanced airborne sensor technology in support of Non-Cooperative Target Identification (NCTI) programs has been the subject of ongoing programs at Wright Laboratory for several years. Capitalizing on the freedom achieved via Global Position System (GPS)/Differential Global Position System (DGPS) technologies, research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) organizations can detach from ground-based systems and locate their operations at a multitude of suitable locations. Utilization of GPS-based position information coupled with a single combined downlink and control facility reduces the complexity and maintenance of a range system while increasing its reliability. Establishing a transportable system further frees the experimenter to deploy to a variety of locations as required under short notice. GPS/DGPS based systems also provide a path to functions other than pure RDT&E. They may be used to provide tools for mission planning, performance monitoring, fault diagnosis, DIS/HLA and other virtual theater platforms. Mission rehearsals can take place in a virtual environment, and the results or expected outcomes integrated into actual exercises via modifications to data sources and operational mode(s). The end product is a powerful, flexible, fully mobile testbed fully supporting RDT&E requirements for Wright Laboratories, as well as other U.S. and foreign research organizations. Termed the Mobile Advanced Range Data System (ARDS) Control Station (MACS), the system has established a track record as an essential enabling technology for current test and evaluation applications. MACS is expected to have a cost-effective impact for future flight test applications as well.