Navigation satellite systems: their characteristics, potential and military applications

Abstract

The evolution and maturing of space system technology has seen an increasing interest and commitment directed towards exploiting the capabilities and potential of satellite-based systems for navigation and related applications. The proven utility of satellite systems has been extended from communications, surveillance, and surface navigation into the fields of aeronautics and space; to other functional areas such as mapping and geodesy, precise time and time transfer; and also to a wide range of military applications. This paper provides a description of the principal navigation satellite systems, either in development or deployed, which have military implications. The systems discussed are the operational US Navy TRANSIT Navigation Satellite System, and the developmental Department of Defense NAVSTAR Global Positioning System (GPS). A review of early navigation satellite developments is provided along with a description of the TRANSIT and NAVSTAR GPS system concepts, performance characteristics, principles of operation, and implementation features. The current status and plans for both TRANSIT and GPS are discussed with particular attention to their military uses. Some of the more significant advantages, limitations, and military benefits of navigation satellite systems are described. Future trends, issue areas, and transition plans are discussed for the use of navigation satellite systems for military and other applications.