Local Carrier-Based Precision Approach and Landing System (LC-PALS)

Toyon Research Corporation, together with the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), propose to develop a Local Carrier-based Precision Approach and Landing System (LC-PALS) that provides a full navigation solution (3-D position and altitude) for platforms within range of an aircraft carrier equipped with at least one beacon. Preliminary analysis indicates that the system will achieve 10-cm z-axis (altitude) accuracy, thereby enabling autonomous carrier landing capability under GPS-denied conditions. Moreover, the system has a low probability of detection and intercept (LPD/LPI), significant built-in anti-jam, anti-spoof, and multipath-mitigation capabilities, and is not prone to integer ambiguity and the cycle-slip phenomenon that is common with GPS-based carrier-phase tracking systems. Furthermore, because the system makes use of the same hardware that is required for GPS processing, the LC-PALS receiver can be fully integrated with GPS, thereby minimizing redundant hardware and enabling simultaneous operation with GPS, when available. While an inertial measurement unit (IMU) is not required for precision approach and landing, an onboard IMU can be used as an additional and complementary measurement source for improved attitude performance. During the Phase I program the LC-PALS feasibility will be fully verified and a hardware design will be completed in preparation for a Phase II demonstration.