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Air–to–ground weapon aiming — a synopsis and a look to the future

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

K. L. Edwards ,
S. J. Lloyd  and
J. F. Ralph
K. L. Edwards
Affiliation:
Sensors & Electronics DivisionDefence Evaluation and Research AgencyFarnborough, UK
S. J. Lloyd
Affiliation:
Sensors & Electronics DivisionDefence Evaluation and Research AgencyFarnborough, UK
J. F. Ralph
Affiliation:
Sensors & Electronics DivisionDefence Evaluation and Research AgencyFarnborough, UK
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Summary

A review of air–to–ground weapon aiming is given, with emphasis placed on the use of the head–up display (HUD), the main cockpit instrument used for accurate weapon aiming over the last 35 years. Nevertheless, the HUD is only of use for the aiming of forward–firing weapons. More advanced weapons have an off–axis capability and their aiming is greatly facilitated by the use of a helmet-mounted sight (HMS) or helmet–mounted display (HMD). The surface–to–air threat and the rules of engagement, particularly in operations other than war, place high demands on the aircrew and the weapon aiming system, both to stand off from the target and to have a high degree of confidence that it is the target. The requirement to perform an accurate in–flight transfer alignment of the weapon places further demands upon the aircrew. Timely and accurate target data, digitally received, plus an on–board targeting system which can automatically search for and recognise a target, are of great utility in the final stages prior to weapon release. The Defence Evaluation and Research Agency is performing research in these areas.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 105 , Issue 1044 , February 2001 , pp. 53 - 62
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2001 

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