ECM PAYLOADS FOR UAVs

The spatial separation offered by UAVs (Unmanned Air Vehicles) negates many advantages of advanced monopulse radar and IR seeker designs. UAVs provide unusual EW payload design freedoms - EW protection of naval surface ships is emphasized. Unique ship considerations include relatively large RCS, limited speed and maneuverability, short warning times, long counter-targeting engagement durations, unusual IR characteristics, multiple ships to be defended, and widely variable engagement geometries. Vector will define an effective, practical, and affordable EW payload that counters both targeting and homing (radar and IR) functions - advanced threat technology dictates requirements and system design. Vector Microwave Research has previously identified and tested an RF ECM technique set for UAV applications - a set to be expanded based on a reassessment of the advanced threat. Vector will add IRCM approaches which accommodate unique UAV contraints. Comprehensive digital modeling will evaluate effectiveness of the additional techniques. Imformation exchanges with UAV platform developers and the UAV JPO will better define information, mechanical, thermal, and electrical interfaces between EW payload and candidate UAV platforms (counter-rotating rotors and tilt rotor designs). System definition includes concept of operations (Command, Control, and Coordination with the AN/SLQ-32(V)/54), interface requirements (payload-UAV-ships via UAV datalinks), and tactics.