Oil-Free Propulsion and Power

Fielding diverse and challenging military training exercises pushes the current line-of-sight limits of Aerial Target control technology. Use of commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satcom services can provide cost effective enhancements, particularly forflight profiles extending over the horizon or over rugged, obstructed terrain.During the Phase I program, Nova compiled general system requirements, researched LEO service providers capabilities, and investigated necessary equipment choices, presenting exciting possibilities for injection of state-of-the-art LEO communications. APhase II program is presented, with a prime objective of command/telemetry link demonstration.A carefully defined program begins with refinement of plans to satisfy customer needs, and collection of relevant system parameters and traits. Then COTS hardware, software, and services are selected and procured. Internal resources design unavailableand specialty items, particularly in the areas of digital interface, mechanical packaging and cabling, and antennas.A progressively sophisticated test suite is implemented, beginning with integration and test at Nova's lab facilities. Then the link User Terminals are moved to the Army's TMO facilities for integration aboard a Target test bed. Three phases of groundbased link testing include installation of a baseline aircraft antenna configuration. The program will provide a powerful tool for managers of training exercises.