Executive Summary
This paper explores intelligent missile guiding technology, focusing on the utilization of GPS and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) for precision-guided munitions. It discusses various guidance methods, including radio waves, infrared, laser, and GPS, highlighting the advantages of GPS/INS for all-weather, autonomous weapon systems. The document also examines the impact of GPS/INS on modern air warfare.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts as it details the technical aspects and strategic implications of GPS/INS guidance in missile technology, which is fundamental to modern precision warfare capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- GPS and INS are critical for modern missile guidance, offering high precision and reducing errors in weapon systems like ATACMS.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
This paper is concentrated on utilization of GPS and “Relative GPS/ATACMS Scenario”. The rocket can be guided by various ways, for instance by utilizing radio waves, infrared, laser and also by utilizing GPS and INS.
- Satellite-guided weapons such as JDAM provide all-weather capability and enhanced accuracy compared to laser or TV-guided systems, even with potential GPS jamming.
Source evidence · PDF page 3
Poor visibility has no impact on satellite-guided weapons like JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munitions) that uses “satellite navigation systems”, particularly the GPS system. It provides enhanced sensitivity compared to laser systems and can work under all weather conditions without the need for ground support.
- The integration of GPS/INS technology is revolutionizing air warfare by enabling autonomous, all-weather precision strikes, reducing reliance on clear line-of-sight and increasing operational flexibility.
Source evidence · PDF page 5
The escalation of GPS/INS is a sword with double edge. On one side the technology promises to revolutionize the air warfare that is not seen with the LASER guided bomb that promotes single bombers to perform multiple aircraft combinations.
Strategic Relevance
The strategic relevance lies in understanding the technological underpinnings of precision-guided munitions, which are central to modern military doctrine and power projection. The shift towards autonomous, all-weather guidance systems significantly impacts operational planning, force effectiveness, and the balance of power.