Qinetiq is preparing to demonstrate engagement of moving targets using a modified 2,000lb (900kg) Raytheon Enhanced Paveway II guided bomb equipped with a Symetrics mini-improved data modem (IDM) and a strap-on flight-control computer.
Target location updates will be provided to the bomb after release by a forward air controller using a handheld laser designator fitted with an auto tracker and linked to a portable targeting computer.
Laser designator data will be transmitted by the computer using a Raytheon SP-TCIM card connected to a Harris Communications RF-5800V handheld radio. This system will provide updates at a rate of 1.5Hz directly to the bomb to provide it with target movement updates throughout its drop phase.
Rick Snyder, programme lead for the mini-IDM at Symetrics, told the International Data Link Symposium in Sydney earlier this month that ground testing of the demonstration system is imminent, as is captive carriage testing aboard a UK Royal Air Force Tornado GR4. He said Qinetiq plans to stage a full system demonstration at the US Navy’s China Lake weapons range in the third week of November, again using a GR4 as the carriage and launch platform.
If successful, Qinetiq plans to follow the demonstration with tests using a Boeing Joint Direct Attack Munition in place of the Enhanced Paveway II. Further tests are being considered based on replacing in-flight target updates from the forward air controller with data provided direct from a Boeing F/A-18 equipped with a sensor pod. The F/A-18 pilot would communicate with the bomb in flight, using the aircraft’s Rockwell Collins ARC-210 radio.
Boeing recently demonstrated moving-target engagement using a modified JDAM fitted with an Innovative Concepts improved data modem attached to a high-frequency transmitter taken from a Harris Falcon II handheld radio.
Source: Flight International
