Precision Aerial Delivery Systems in a Tactical Environment

A systems level analysis of precision aerial delivery systems provides a basis for comparing the characteristics of different types of systems and the implications that component and control approach selection have on system performance. High-glide and low-glide systems types are described. The effects of glide ratio, control response and sensor selection on terminal accuracy are analyzed. Wind data is necessary for all system types. The paper discusses the use of wind data, the need for an accuracy estimate as part of the wind data and the trade between wind data accuracy and attainable offset. In tactical situations, the concept of operations and the selection of system type and desired offset performance is affected by the threat scenario, and the operator’s knowledge of threats and their distribution. Several novel operational concepts are discussed, along with the implications for system performance requirements. As part of the analysis, this paper suggests new nomenclature needed to analyze systems, introduces key operational concepts, and areas for future study. Nomenclature ARC Aerial Release Circle BIT Built-In Test capability PI Point of Impact IP Intended Point of impact CARP Calculated Aerial Release Point DoD US Department of Defense GN&C Guidance, Navigation, and Control JPADS Joint Precision Aerial Delivery System KPP Key Performance Parameter V̂ mean wind error σ standard deviation