Managing multi-platform sensor systems

The Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance (TF/TA) functionality in Raytheon Terrain Following Radars (TFRs) has been adapted to many platforms and coupled with additional radar modes. The result is a Multi-Mode Radar (MMR) that provides a low-level operational capability at night, in adverse weather and in high-threat environments for a wide variety of aircraft. There exists a high degree of commonality between the LANTIRN (Low-Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared System for Night) AN/APN-237A TFR subsystem and its MMR derivatives. Five of the six Weapons Replaceable Assemblies (WRAs) in the MMR are essentially LANTIRN designs. Only the Radar Interface Unit (RIU) is unique to the MMR. This commonality thread is maintained from LANTIRN through the AN/APQ-174B and C versions and, to the maximum extent possible, in the AN/APQ-186. Utilizing this approach gives the MMR the benefit of combat-proven control algorithms and highly reliable designs to provide a high-confidence system with high user acceptability. This paper discusses the history of the system and the development approach that has helped make this line of radars successful on multiple, airborne platforms.