TATTLE-TAIL Weapons Impact/Bomb Damage Assessment Exploratory Development

The TATTLE-TAIL concept nominally provides for a dedicated, expendable sensor that can be carried and released by a weapon. on weapon release, the TATTLE-TAIL would remain with the weapon for a short time, then be automatically released, and possibly suspended by a retarding device. A low-precision strap-down inertial system, range finder, and computer may be provided to calculate the-approximate line-of-sight (LOS) to the impact point. The LOS estimate and an inertial platform could be used to stabilize a steerable sensor on the target area. TATTLE-TAIL sensor imagery is then transmitted realtime via datalink for recording by the delivery aircraft, a remote collection platform, or even a satellite. TATTLE-TAIL may include a retarding system (parachute, balloon, parafoil, etc.) to provide the persistence necessary to collect weapon impact AND post impact events. Eventually, the device descends to ground level, the internal source of electric power is expended, and it ceases to operate.