APPLICATION OF GPS TO NATIONAL TEST RANGES

Abstract

This paper summarizes an evaluation of the potential use of the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System (GPS) as a source of Time Space Position Information (TSPI) for weapon system test and evaluation. The study was conducted in support of a Tri-Service Steering Committee chartered by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense Research and Engineering to investigate applications of GPS for the DOD test and training ranges. The performance capabilities and life-cycle costs of GPS- and non-GPS-based instrumentation equipment are compared for eight generically-defined test ranges. Based on these analyses, a prioritized ranking of applications is presented. Finally, desirable characteristics for a family of GPS equipment are described and technical issues requiring resolution through field tests are identified.