Missile Controls

Missile ControlsENGR 315A

Prof. P. RibeiroPresented by:Craig Mulder

OutlineAfghanistan – How do they do that?Types of Missile ControlsPhysical Controls Inertial Navigation System (INS)Global Positioning System (GPS)Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM)

Conclusion

War on Terrorism“Arm’s-length warfare”Primary Weapon: TomahawkOther guided weapons includedStand back and watch the results

ResultsExamples of guided weapon strikes:

How They Do ThatPhysical ControlsFins controlled by computer which

evaluates inputs from guidance systems

Initial Guidance SystemInertial Navigation System (INS)Easiest way from point A to B is a straight

line (or arc)Sensors determine tilt, roll and yaw as well

as acceleration and velocityComputer keeps memory of previous

motion and adjusts fins to keep on line or arc

Primary Guidance SystemGlobal Positioning System (GPS) INS has a habit of drifting due to error

compoundingGPS gives accurate positioning through

triangulation

Final Guidance SystemTerrain Contour Mapping (TERCOM)Used mainly for final approachAlso used at certain times during flightCan be used continuously for “ground-

hugging” flight, a la the TomahawkWorks by uploading pictures of target or

path before flight and comparing them to photographs taken during flight

Rendering of TERCOM

ConclusionKeep US troops safe, which keeps public happyReason for US Military Supremacy in recent decades