In order to achieve mission effectiveness in the present threat environment, military helicopters and small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) operations are focusing on low-level or nap-of-the-earth flying. This is the tactic of employing the aircraft in such a manner as to utilize the terrain profile to enhance survivability by degrading the enemyââ¬â¢s ability to visually, optically or electronically detect or locate the aircraft. In these scenarios, radar is normally required to maintain the aircraft flight at a present altitude above the terrain. Since the adoption of this philosophy, the incidence of obstacle strike accidents has grown. The main restrictions for low-level navigation and terrain following operations with helicopters and UAV are due to adverse weather conditions. Low visibility is the main reason that prevents flight/ground crews from safely controlling the aircraft and from identifying possible obstacle collision hazards. The first laser experiment directed towards a laser obstacle detection and avoidance system started in 1965 with a Nd:YAG laser.
Last date updated on September, 2024