Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 October 2009
The United Kingdom's interest in the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) and its Relative Navigation (relnav) capability began in 1979 with studies into an Electronic Counter-measures (ECM) Resistant Communications System (ERCS). The Singer Kearfott Division (SKD) Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) JTIDS system, which includes a relnav and position reporting capability, was selected to fulfill this requirement. Early in 1985, approval was also granted to the Royal Navy to procure an ERCS.
Technical studies on JTIDS for airborne applications are being directed by RAE Farnborough and by ARE Portsdown for maritime use. Systems Designers Scientific (SD Scientific) is providing technical support in a number of areas including relnav.
This paper, which was presented at an Ordinary Meeting of the Institute held in London on 15 January, gives a very brief overview of JTIDS and describes the principles of relnav before outlining the structured approach to JTIDS relnav evaluation which has been adopted.