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A question of survival – military aircraft vs the electromagnetic environment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2016

M. Pywell
M. Pywell*
Affiliation:
BAE Systems – Air Systems Division, Warton, Lancashire, UK
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Abstract

Military aircraft, by definition, need to survive the onslaught of opposing forces to successfully complete their mission. From an aircraft perspective, the electromagnetic (EM) environment can be an enabler, via the use of navigation aids, radar, radio communications etc. – in fact mission success depends on its successful use. However, this environment is also potentially a disabler, as threat weapon systems and the environment itself can harm or destroy the aircraft. This paper discusses risks and hazards thus posed to aircraft survivability, partitioned into two classes – ‘direct’ and ‘indirect’ EM threats. ‘Direct’ threats are those that occur as a result of direct coupling of EM energy to the airframe and systems within, e.g. lightning strike and directed energy weapons. ‘Indirect’ threats are those that utilise EM sensors to detect, track and target the aircraft, e.g. radar-guided surface-to-air missiles. Airframe intrinsic mechanical vulnerability is also an important part of survivability, although not addressed in this EM-related paper. It is shown that risk and hazard can be minimised by gaining a thorough understanding of operational scenarios, developing holistic system-of-systems solutions to military requirements, and using best practice design and development techniques.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 108 , Issue 1087 , September 2004 , pp. 453 - 464
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2004 

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