Test Range Mobile Relay Platform

Ground/shore based Range Instrumentation system are constrained by line-of-sight limitations as well as multi-path effects resulting from low angle tracking over a water horizon. A high altitude platform is required to extend line-of-sight range as wellas increase tracking angle required for effective data relay. Existing and legacy systems meeting this requirement are/were either not cost effective, few in numbers, or are simply outdated. Recent advances in UAV and experimental aircraft technologyhave made such platform feasible. COTS affordable UAV autopilots and high performance homebuilt airframes can be integrated with matured airborne data relay electronics to realize and affordable and high performance high altitude data relay system. Withproduction capability of a high performance yet affordable UAV system, Horizon can offer the system as surveillance, data relay, and test platforms to other government agencies such as DOD, Homeland Security, NASA, NOAA, EPA, etc... Civil organizations inthe security, communications, commercial aerospace, media, search and rescue, energy, and agriculture industry can also take advantage of the low cost and flexible system. The availability of key off the shelf technology should significantly reduce timeto market as well as initial investment.