A new ATS architecture for depot testing of warheaded weapons

The Integrated Weapons Complex (IWC) is a facility available at a number of UK armaments depots. These IWCs are used for the repair, assembly, test and storage of sophisticated weapons that contain explosives. They are suitable for processing virtually all types of missiles used by the UK Army, Navy, and Air Force. The configuration of buildings that make up an IWC are such that warheaded weapons and test personnel are well segregated for reasons of safety during the test phase when power and stimulus are applied to the weapons. Traditionally the main test resources are local to the test personnel with testing being conducted remotely. This, however, leads to very long signal paths and the need for significant conditioning circuitry close to the weapon under test. In the mid 90s the UK MoD proposed a new preferred architecture for future Automatic Test Systems (ATSs) common to both depot and industry, taking advantage of new technology and favouring test equipment situated adjacent to the weapon. The first of the new generation of downsized ATSs, configured for alongside testing is nearing completion. This paper compares the old and new architectures and identifies benefits to the user.