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CHAPTER 8

TARGETS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT Aerial targets and associated equipment are used in gunnery, rocketry, and for missile practice by ships and shore installations. They are also used in air-to-air firing exercises. Firing at targets that simulate moving aircraft improves the battle efficiency of the Navy and provides useful information for evaluating armament control/weapons systems under development for operational use by the fleet. The weapons system community selects a target which closely simulates enemy threats. Target selection must be carefully made to test the effectiveness of a particular weapon system. Emphasis is placed on selecting suitable targets for weapons evaluation and fleet training as weapons become more specialized and their performance evaluation more complex.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES When you have completed this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

1. Identify the external gunnery tow target, tow cable, and associated equipment. Describe the operating theory of the external gunnery tow target.

2. Identify aerial targets to include the missile target and target system. 3. Identify the purpose and use of target logbooks, aerial target expenditure reports,

and target performance reports. 4. Identify the purpose and use of the air-launched decoy. 5. Identify safety precautions to follow when working with aerial targets and

associated equipment.

TARGETS, SYSTEMS, AND EQUIPMENT Target systems are divided into three categories: tow targets, aerial targets, and land target systems (Table 8-1). Within each category there are different types of targets as described in the following paragraphs.

Table 8-1 Target Categories and Types

Target Aerial Target Land Target Tow Target Systems

Subscale Full Scale Aerial Tow

BQM-34S X

BQM-74C/E X

QLT-1C X

TDU-32A/B X

TDU-32B/B X

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Figure 8-1 TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B aerial tow target banner.

TOW TARGETS The TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B targets are banner-type aerial tow targets used for air-to-air and surface-to-air gunnery or missile firing training exercises. The target is towed from an F/A-18 aircraft using a tow banner adapter (P/N 4205-01) as authorized by NAVAIR A1-F18AC-NFM-000 and NTRP 3-22.4-FA18A-D. This Aerial Tow Target Banner is authorized for ground launch only. Shipboard launch is not authorized. The TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B aerial tow target banner, (Figure 8-1), consists of a 40-foot long by 7-foot 6-inch- wide rectangular fabric panel attached to a weighted steel tow bar. A 60-foot nylon webbing safety bridle connects the tow bar and panel to the towline. The tow target tow bar is counterweighted to hold the banner in a vertical position during flight. To enhance visual tracking, targets have a 12-inch orange border and a 48-inch orange bull's-eye centered on the white portion. The leading particulars are listed in Table 8-2.

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Figure 8-2 Tow banner staging configuration.

Table 8-2 Leading Particulars

The TDU-32B/B target is identical to the TDU-32A/B target except the panel assembly of the TDU-32A/B is made of laser retro-reflective material that will reflect radio frequency (RF) signals and retro-reflect laser radiation. The TDU-32A/B fabric is 90 percent radar reflective. The TDU-32 series targets are ground-drag launched from the runway (Figure 8-2) by the tow aircraft and trailed in the air approximately 1,800 feet behind the tow aircraft. The target is designed to operate from sea level to 30,000 feet at a maximum of 220 knots calibrated air speed (KCAS). Recovery is accomplished by releasing the target in a recovery area at an altitude and speed specified in the tow aircraft Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) flight manual.

TDU-32A/B TDU-32B/B

Weight 87 pounds 87 pounds

Volume 5.3 feet 5.3 feet

Panel

Length 40 feet 40 feet

Height 7 1/2 feet 7 1/2 feet

Bridle Assembly

Length 60 feet 60 feet

Height 1 inch 1 inch

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Figure 8-3 TDU-32 Series aerial tow target banner operational configuration.

RADAR REFLECTIVITY The TDU-32A/B panel assembly contains properties that will reflect RF signals compatible with fire control radar systems. LASER RETRO-REFLECTIVITY The TDU-32B/B panel assembly contains properties that will reflect RF signals and retro-reflect laser radiation.

Towline and Towline Wire Rope Leader The towline is used to tow the TDU-32 series tow target banner for air-to-air and surface-to-air gunnery or missile firing training. The towline is comprised of a 1,500-foot length of 11/64-inch diameter armored towline with various attaching components. The towline wire rope leader is used to attach the towline to the tow aircraft via the towline banner adapter. The towline leader is comprised of a 75-foot length of 3/8-inch steel wire rope with various attaching components (Figure 8-3).

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Figure 8-4 BQM-74E missile target.

Aerial tow target towlines and towline wire rope leaders have been developed in cooperation with the Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division, Warminster (NAWCADWAR) Warminster, Pennsylvania, and the Air Force Armament Laboratory at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Maintenance instructions for the towline and towline leader are found in WP 006 00 of Maintenance Instruction with Illustrated Parts Breakdown Aerial Tow Target Banner TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B, NAVAIR 28-10A-23. 11/64-INCH DIAMETER ARMORED TOWLINE The 11/64-inch diameter armored towline is constructed using one strand of 1x19 wire and it is armor-wrapped and swaged. The armored towline has a breaking strength of 4,000 pounds and weighs 75.7 pounds per 1,000 feet. 3/8-INCH TOWLINE WIRE ROPE LEADER The 3/8-inch diameter towline wire rope leader is constructed by using seven compacted strands of nineteen wires each (7x19). The towline leader has a breaking strength of 13,000 pounds and weighs 243 pounds per 1,000 feet. The TDU-32 series tow targets, towline, and towline wire rope leader are retrievable and reusable when not expended during use. Certain inspections must be performed during their life cycle. These inspections are not required on a periodic basis, but rather on a preflight / postflight schedule. The aircraft and tow target preparation procedures for the TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B can be found in Maintenance Instruction with Illustrated Parts Breakdown Aerial Tow Target Banner TDU-32A/B and TDU-32B/B, NAVAIR 28-10A-23.

AERIAL TARGETS The Navy uses the BQM-74E missile target and the BQM-34S missile target. A simplified discussion of aerial targets is presented in this section of the rate training manual (RTM).

BQM-74E Missile Target The BQM-74E missile target (Figure 8-4) is a recoverable, remotely-controlled, subscale, subsonic target capable of speeds up to Mach 0.75 and altitudes from 7 feet

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Figure 8-5 BQM-74E missile target.

Figure 8-6 BQM-74E target control system.

to 40,000 feet. It is propelled during flight by a single J400-WR-404 turbojet engine which produces 240 pounds of thrust at full throttle at sea level. The target is designed to be surface-launched from a zero length ground launcher utilizing dual Jet Assisted Takeoff (JATO) (Figure 8-5).

When equipped with an air launch kit, the target can be air-launched from the G-1 commercial aircraft. The target is controlled through normal flight maneuvers with the capability of performing 75-degree bank angle turns. The target is normally controlled by a fixed or portable integrated tracking and control system transponder (Figure 8-6). The target is equipped with a parachute recovery subsystem and an active flotation subsystem. After water entry, these subsystems keep the target afloat for a minimum of 24 hours. The target has retrieval attachments that are compatible with shipboard or helicopter retrieval equipment. Target

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Figure 8-7 BQM-34S missile target.

recovery is executed by parachute and can be accomplished either on land or at sea by boat or helicopter. The mission-peculiar equipment, installation, and checkout procedures are listed in Maintenance Instruction Manual, NAVAIR 01-BQM-74E-2-1. For further information concerning the basic BQM-74E target, Maintenance Instructions Target Drone Navy Model BQM-74E, NAVAIR 01-BQM-74E-2-2 should be consulted.

BQM-34S Missile Target The BQM-34S missile target (Figure 8-7) is a recoverable, remotely-controlled, subscale, subsonic target capable of speeds up to Mach 0.9 and altitudes from 10 feet to 50,000 feet. It is propelled during flight by a single J-69 or J85-100 turbojet engine which produces 1,920 or 2,800 pounds of thrust at full throttle at sea level.

The target is designed to be surface-launched from short-rail or zero-length ground launchers using a single JATO or air-launched from DC-130 aircraft. The target is controllable through normal flight maneuvers with capabilities of performing up to 5G turns. The system transmits target telemetry on the tracking down-link signal. Target recovery is executed by deploying a two-stage parachute. Recovery can be accomplished on land or at sea. When recovery is made at sea, the target can be retrieved by boat or helicopter.

Mk 28 Mod 3 This target flare is used to provide an infrared source on the BQM-74E target during missile firings.

Mk 37 Mod 0 This target flare is used to provide an infrared source on the missile target to enhance survivability of the target during missile firings.

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Figure 8-8 Typical tactical air-launched decoy (TALD).

AIR-LAUNCHED DECOY Air-launched decoys are air-launched vehicles whose purpose is to minimize, nullify, or confuse enemy air defense systems. The tactical air-launched decoy (TALD) and the improved tactical air-launched decoy (ITALD) are air-launched, aerodynamic vehicles that provide operating forces with increased capability in the areas of reconnaissance, surveillance, and electronic counter-countermeasures. The TALD (Figure 8-8) provides false imagery to defense acquisition systems by using chaff, electromagnetic, and radar signature augmentation. There are three TALD vehicles: A/B37U-1(V) 1, chaff vehicle; A/B37U-1(V) 2 radar passive/active RF vehicle; and ADM-141 A radar passive/active RF vehicle. While form, fit, and function remain the same within each version, manufacturing differences have produced variants.

The TALD consists of a nose cone, left and right antenna/wing assembly, an empennage, a vertical stabilizer, left and right stabilizer, a vertical fin, a flight computer, a pilot battery, and a main battery (Figure 8-9).

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Figure 8-9 Typical TALD component locations.

Figure 8-10 Typical improved tactical air-launched decoy (ITALD).

All versions are approximately 92 inches long, 10 inches wide and 10 inches high. The chaff vehicle weighs approximately 380 pounds, while all RF passive and active versions weigh approximately 400 pounds. A computer within each vehicle is preprogrammed with flight profile data prior to loading. It provides flight management and control of the vehicle through a series of planned maneuvers after launch. All three versions of the TALD are compatible with and can be launched from the BRU-42 Improved Multiple Ejector Rack (IMER) or a BRU-42 Improved Triple Ejector Rack (ITER). The improved tactical air-launched decoy (ITALD) is a preprogrammed, powered RF passive/active vehicle used to deceive and saturate enemy integrated air defenses during strike aircraft operations (Figure 8-10). It is a pre-planned product improvement that adds turbojet propulsion, radar controlled, low-level flight, and global positioning

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system (GPS) navigational capability to the ITALD. Its official designation is ADM-141C. The ITALD is approximately 92 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 10 inches high and weighs approximately 375 pounds. The wing assemblies consist of fiberglass extrusions with receive antennas installed on the lower surfaces and a transmitting antenna located in each wing. When deployed by the pressure actuation and wing actuator assemblies, the wings provide the decoy with aerodynamic lift during flight. A computer within each vehicle is preprogrammed with flight profile data prior to loading. It provides flight management and controls the vehicle through a series of planned maneuvers after launch. A nose cone assembly serves as the aerodynamic forward end of the ITALD vehicle structure. The nose cone assembly contains the RF augmenter antenna and a Luneberg lens which increases the radar cross capability and an extended flight envelope for expanded missions. The ITALD has enhanced terrain tracking capability, as well as GPS waypoint navigation and extended flight envelope for expanded missions. The ITALD is only compatible with and can be launched from the BRU-42 (ITER).

RECORD KEEPING AND REPORTING Maintenance performed on targets is based on the concept that maintenance should be performed at the lowest maintenance level capable of performing the work. All maintenance is performed in accordance with approved Commander, Naval Air Systems Command (COMNAVAIRSYSCOM) maintenance plans, maintenance instruction manuals, and maintenance requirement cards. Organizational maintenance activities are responsible for maintaining target logbooks, target discrepancy books, target performance reports, and should ensure that all maintenance is documented on OPNAV4790/60 in accordance with COMNAVAIRFORINST 4790.2. Appendix H of the Naval Ordnance Maintenance Management Program (NOMMP), OPNAVINST 8000.16 instruction contains sample Visual Information Display System/Maintenance Action Forms (VIDS/MAFs).

TARGET LOGBOOKS All activities that have reporting custody of target systems should maintain target logbooks and associated records for their assigned target systems in a proper and up-to-date status. Target logbooks provide a history of maintenance, operation, and configuration control of the target. The logbook is a hardcover, loose leaf ring binder containing separators and page insert forms. The logbook should be maintained digitally and a disk provided with the logbook. The original accepting activity, upon acceptance of the target, should initiate the target logbook. The logbook should be kept in the maintenance or production control office and any classified logbook information should be safeguarded in accordance with applicable security regulations. When the target is transferred, the logbook should be transferred with the target. The logbook should be brought up-to-date before the transfer and should be kept neat, clean, and entries should be printed in black ink (no felt-tipped pens should be used) or typewritten. The target logbook is maintained throughout the target's life cycle.

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TARGET DISCREPANCY BOOK The target discrepancy book is designed to provide maintenance personnel with an accurate, comprehensive, and chronological record of all operations, discrepancies, and maintenance performed on a specific target. Maintenance control maintains a target discrepancy book for each target assigned, with the exception of tow banners and towlines. The target discrepancy bookwhich is set up by target serial numbermust accurately reflect the status of all pending maintenance requirements as shown on the maintenance control or workcenter visual information display system (VIDS) board.

TARGET PERFORMANCE REPORTS The individual target performance report documents target performance. These reports should be completed electronically in an automated Web-accessible database for Navy wide use. TARGETS is a secured W site and requires a username and password which can be obtained by contacting the All Weapon Information System (AWIS) Access Desk at (805) 484-6565 or DSN 893-6565. All target operating activities are required to report on target performance whenever:

A powered target is operated

A previously submitted target performance report requires correction or deletion Reports are to be completed immediately after the operation and submitted into the database within 24 hours if the target is expended and 48 hours if the target was not expended. All target performance reports are now part of the AWIS database and can be accessed electronically at the appropriate Web site.

TARGET EXPENDITURE REPORTING Current expenditure/allocation information will be available as part of the target site on the AWIS database system at the current Web site. The expenditure database will be updated automatically based on the input of the target performance report by the operating activity. Target operating activities are still required to transmit a message report within 24 hours of a target loss, listing target, serial number, calendar date of expenditure, activity charged (COMNAVAIRSYSCOM/Sub claimant/Foreign Military Sales [FMS]), weapon system utilized/FMS case number. These messages will be addressed to Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division (NAVAIRWARCENWPNSDIV). All aerial towed targets (TDU-32) data may be inputted weekly. Real time reports are now available on the Web site. An automated process will download and save end of month, quarter, and year reports.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS There are many safety precautions associated with the target towing. Some of these safety precautions are:

A cable should be uncoiled by standing the coil on its edge, holding the end, and unrolling the coil. Personnel should NEVER attempt to take cable from either a coil or roll by pulling the cable when the coil or roll is lying flat. The cable will snarl and kink.

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When cutting a nylon towline, the ends should be bound. Otherwise, enough heat should be applied to the cut ends to melt the nylon. This prevents unraveling.

All personnel involved in target towing operations must know the standard hand signals for controlling aircraft on the ground.

A preflight inspection of all tow equipment should be performed.

Make sure personnel are clear of the cable when a target is launched.

All hands should be kept clear of moving parts when the equipment is in operation.

Caution should be exercised when it is necessary to work in close proximity of pneumatic, hydraulic, spring, or cartridge-operated components.

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End of Chapter 8 TARGETS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT

Review Questions 8-1. What tow target is used for air-to-air and surface-to-air gunnery or missile firing

training exercises? A. TDU-32A/B

B. TDU-33B/B C. TOD-32A/B

D. TOD-32B/B

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8-2. The Navy currently uses which of the following powered targets?

A. AQM-37C only B. BQM-34S only C. BQM-74E only D. BQM-34S and BQM-74E

8-3. ABQM-74E missile target can be launched from which of the following launching

environments?

A. An aircraft B. A shore installation C. A ship D. All the answers are correct

8-4. The BQM-74E target is controlled through normal flight maneuvers with the

capability of performing 75-degree bank angle turns by what means? A. By fixed or portable integrated tracking and control system transponder B. By the programmed flight profile before launch C. By utilizing dual JATO D. All the answers are correct 8-5. There are a total of how many types of TALD vehicles? A. Two B. Three C. Four D. Five 8-6. What does the TALD use to provide false imagery to defense acquisition

systems? A. Chaff, electromagnetic, and radar signature augmentation B. Reconnaissance, surveillance, and electronic counter-countermeasures C. Radar passive/active radio frequency D. Left and right antenna/wing assembly

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8-7. What air-launched decoy has the product improvement that added turbojet propulsion, radar control, low-level flight, and GPS navigational capability?

A. TALD B. ITALD C. BQM-74E D. None of the answers are correct 8-8. Target logbooks provide a history of maintenance, operation, and ___________

control of the target. A. configuration B. custody C. logbook D. security 8-9. What is the purpose of the individual target performance report? A. To document target performance B. To show target usage C. For target tracking purposes D. To record all operations 8-10. Target performance reports are to be completed immediately after the operation

and submitted into the database within ______ hours if the target is expended and _____ hours if the target was not expended.

A. 24, 36 B. 24, 48 C. 36, 48 D. 48, 96 8-11. Current expenditure/allocation information will be available as part of the target

site on what database system? A. TARGET B. AWIS C. Expenditure D. REPORTS

CHAPTER 8TARGETS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENTLEARNING OBJECTIVESTARGETS, SYSTEMS, AND EQUIPMENTTOW TARGETSTowline and Towline Wire Rope Leader

AERIAL TARGETSBQM-74E Missile TargetBQM-34S Missile TargetMk 28 Mod 3Mk 37 Mod 0

AIR-LAUNCHED DECOYRECORD KEEPING AND REPORTINGTARGET LOGBOOKSTARGET DISCREPANCY BOOKTARGET PERFORMANCE REPORTSTARGET EXPENDITURE REPORTINGSAFETY PRECAUTIONS

End of Chapter 8TARGETS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENTReview Questions

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