Test and evaluation of the Rockwell Collins GNP-10 for the precision kill and targeting (PKAT) missile system

Abstract

The US Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Research, Development, and Engineering Center (RDEC) is developing advanced technologies for demonstration on a missile testbed with precision kill and targeting (PKAT) capabilities. Currently in the US Army inventory there is no long-range stand-off precision guided weapon with real-time target imaging capabilities. Experience has demonstrated the value of real-time imagery and information provided to a trained gunner directly from the weapon. The goal of the PKAT program is to develop technologies to provide this capability at operational ranges up to 30 km while providing additional critical information in real-time such as surveillance, targeting, and battlefield damage assessment. It has been determined that a Global Positioning System (GPS)/inertial navigation system (INS) will be the most cost effective navigation approach for the PKAT program. In the summer of 1999, a Rockwell Collins GNP-10 (GPS Navigation Package) underwent evaluation testing at the RDEC for the PKAT program. The GNP-10 is a high performance ten channel GPS receiver integrated with a guidance navigation processor. It is designed to be tightly coupled with a user-supplied inertial measurement unit (IMU) to provide an integrated GPS/INS solution. Low dynamic van tests using live satellites were performed on a GNP-10 tightly coupled with a Honeywell HG1700 IMU. This paper presents the procedure and results of these tests as well as supporting laboratory test results.