Terrain referenced navigation

Abstract

An attempt is made to provide airframe manufacturers and system integrators with an overview of terrain referenced navigation, with particular emphasis on the principle of operation, the types of sensors, and correlation processes in use. The optimization of the sensors for terrain referenced navigation is discussed, and terrain referenced navigation is compared with the Global Positioning System (GPS). It is noted that applications of terrain referenced navigation in conjunction with the database are perhaps more important than the improved navigation accuracy. How each of these applications is implemented and the hardware implications are detailed. The three-dimensional accurate position and the database can be used for other functions such as terrain following and intelligent ground proximity warning.<>