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Developments in RF simulator technology – approaching the affordable fidelity limit

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2016

M. Pywell
M. Pywell*
Affiliation:
BAE Systems – Military Air Solutions, Warton, Lancashire, UK
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Abstract

Technology developments in radar frequency simulators of the type used to verify the performance of complex electronic warfare systems are described. The successful verification of this performance prior to combat use is a necessary pre-requisite of military platform survivability and mission success. These simulators and associated modelling and analysis tools have enabled a major shift during the last 15 years from expensive and limited flight trials to repeatable laboratory and anechoic chamber tests, although they will never totally supplant those trials. Most limitations of the early days of many-channel simulators, 25 years ago, have been resolved or adequately and – as importantly – affordably mitigated, largely enabled by computing power increases. Limitations remain that will, within affordability constraints driven by Defence Ministries worldwide, prevent perfect simulation (‘emulation’) and the attendant, tantalising but utopian goal of laboratory and chamber test results that precisely match those from flight test and combat.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 111 , Issue 1123 , September 2007 , pp. 545 - 560
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2007 

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