Multiple Uses for Multiple Telemetry Antennas

Abstract

An increasing number of munition programs are integrating telemetry (TM) into their artillery rounds. Due to their small size and high speed, tracking munitions brings with it challenges typically not seen with aviation. Tracking with multiple TM antennas provides a more complete data collection event across the extended ranges, demonstrated in modern artillery, and provides advantages as a result of spatial diversity. Traditional munition testing usually incorporates radar and camera mounts that track the munition throughout its flight. TM has the benefit of the telemetered stream aiding in acquisition; however, given the size and speed of the munition, initial radar or camera acquisition can be very challenging without access to an external pointing source. The YPG conducted a series of flight tests using multiple TM antennas to explore the ways TM can help provide pointing as well as to further its integration of best source selection into its TM infrastructure.