INS/GPS navigation systems for land applications

Kearfott has developed a family of ring laser gyroscope (RLG) angular displacement and linear acceleration sensors which have been integrated with GPS in various configurations to address the operational requirements and cost of ownership constraints for tactical applications. This paper discusses the considerations in developing a military land navigation system which meets the rigid performance criteria and makes uses of products that are in production to minimize overall development costs. Implementing these design guidelines, including modular architecture for improved maintainability, balancing the reliance on GPS with the inclusion of inertial quality sensors, and the operational advantages of the more robust system is explained. Kearfott's miniature integrated land navigation system (MILNAV) is described with respect to multi-use development. Specific focus highlights the modular nature of Kearfott's MILNAV product family and its ability to provide optimal land navigation and/or weapon pointing information in tactical scenarios. Test results for both self-propelled and towed Howitzers, mobile mortars and other land vehicles are used to demonstrate the pros and cons of the INS/GPS blending for land applications.