TELEMETRY CONSIDERATIONS WITH OPERATIONAL STEALTH VEHICLES

Abstract

Instrumenting the operational B-2 Strategic Bomber presents some unique problems. For example, the requirement to remain operational dictates that the aircraft must retain its stealth characteristics. This means traditional antennas cannot simply be attached to the airframe. A solution to this problem is an antenna designed with stealth, or Low Observable (LO), attributes. Stealth is not an absolute; it is relative. Therefore, antenna design becomes a balancing act between the LO relativity, antenna directivity, and antenna gain. Weapons testing is an additional concern, where instrumented ordinances transmit data that must be monitored real-time prior to launch. Stealth vehicles must carry weapons internally, restricting the Radio Frequency (RF) transmission of telemetered data from the weapon. With the development of future stealthy conveyances, such as the F-22, Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), ground, and ocean-going craft, these concerns will become even more prevalent.