World Leader in supplying S.W.A.T Equipment &Training · 1 1.1 The Growing Operational Demand for Persistent Surveillance 1.2 ... also features an optional wireless data link

S.W.A.TWorld Leader in supplying S.W.A.TEquipment &Training

TAR-180 Tactical Aerostat System – Overview

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1 1.1 The Growing Operational Demand for Persistent Surveillance 1.2 The TAR 180 Concept Persistent, Flexible, 1000 feet above ground level and Cost Effective 1.3 TAR 180

2 TAR 180 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION 2.1 Mission Capabilities 2.2 TAR -180 Specifications 2.3 System’s Components 2.3.1 Aerostat 2.3.2 Airborne Pack2 age 2.3.3 Payload 2.3.4 Main Tether 2.3.5 MooringSystem 2.3.6 Ground Control Station

3 OPERATING THE TAR 180 SYSTEM 3.1 Transportation 3.2 Deploym3 ent 3.3 Relocation 3.4 Operation 3.5 Environmental Resistance

4 TRAINING, LOGISTICS AND MAINTENANCE 4.1 Training Courses 4.2 Logistics 4.3 Ground Support Equipment (GSE) 4.4 Maintenance C4 oncept 5 SUMMARY


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1.1. The Growing Operational Demand for Persistent Surveillance.TAR, with its extensive experience development and operations Systems, sees the ISR aerostat role as complementary to that of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). While a UAV is used for a whole range of ISR tasks, there will always be the need to protect fixed sites, such as military bases, temporarycamps, strategic facilities and border crossing checkpoints.The need for persistent surveillance is enhanced in a high risk operational environment of hostile civilian surrounding, where enemies can operate in clandestine. Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) activated against military forces near their bases and attempted attacks on military camps are also threats which require constant and reliable eyes in the sky.The TAR-180 is ideal for these duties thanks to its constant, 360o, 24-7, presence above a protected area, providing high quality surveillance and automatic scanning. Furthermore, the TAR-180 presents outstanding tactical capabilities: it can operate up to 3 days straight with only a 30 minute re-inflation Break after 72 hours; it performs in extreme weather conditions; has high mobility and a very small logistical footprint; is simple to operate and is highly cost effective.

1.2. The TAR-180 Concept - Persistent, Flexible, 1000 feet above ground level and Cost EffectiveThe TAR-180 is a tactical surveillance aerostat system, which consists of a stabilized day/night electrooptical payload suspended from a helium-filled aerostat that is tethered to a ground system. The TAR Aerostat system is designed for defense and security applications. By providing an elevated platform, well above the field of operation, the system offers an indispensable, dominating view of the scene below.TAR-180 provides prolonged, wide area surveillance coverage from an altitude of up to 1000 feet (300 meters) above ground level, and transmits the surveillance video and data to control station on the ground.

1.2.1. Persistent - 24/7 PresenceThe TAR-180 persistent 24/7- presence above protected

areas provides real-time image and effective observation coverage, target acquisition and surveillance. The system can be operated continuously for several months, being resupplied with helium containers once up to every 2 weeks, with only a 30 minute break for re-filling the aerostat up to 72 hours.A major advantage of aerostats is their ability to provide their users with elevated observation source, while keeping it in the same location above the area of interest. With its capability torise up to 1000 feet, the TAR-180 can enlarge its range of coverage, to overcome an array of obstacles including terrain, buildings and vegetation.

1.2.2. Flexibility - The Tactical AdvantageTAR-180 system is designed to achieve high operational flexibility: System deployment takes approximately 30 minutes and

requires no terrain preparations. High transportability: TAR-180 mooring

system, based on a van towable trailer.

1.2.3. 1000 Feet Above ground level - The 3rdDimension AdvantageTAR-180 is simple to operate: A several weeks training period is required for a field soldier

in order to learn how to operate the aerostat system and payload. The system is operated by 2 personnel.

1.2.4. Cost EffectiveTAR-180 is a robust, highly cost effective system, enabling it’s to perform high quality surveillance within restricted budget.

1.3. TAR- 180 - Customization and ExpansionOptions:TARs’ systems have an open architecture design and are based on technological building blocks that can be integrated into a system of systems that can provide a complete defense solution for various operational challenges. TAR-180 can be easily integrated into a multi sensor system whether they are deployed along a border, around a compound, on aerial, land


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or sea platforms.In addition, the open architecture allows for interconnectivity with existing command and control system and with existing sensors including: electrooptical, radar, fence detectors, remote controlled weapon stations and signal intelligence.The TAR-180 system has various options for expansion and customization with military and civilian applications.

1.3.1. Border ProtectionA combination of multiple sensors under a joint Command and control system can also be activated in a linear protected area as compared to a protected compound. A combineddeployment of Radar, TAR - 180 and surveillance payload can be efficiently operated along an international ground border, a coastal border or any other sensitive area which requires high quality system protection. The border protection application of TAR -180 can be deployed along with a tangible obstacle such as a fence or an alerting system. Actual deployment of sensors would be defined by effective range of each sensor, terrain, required level of coverage, and availability of operational personnel to protect the border.

1.3.2. Military Base Protection TAR-180 represents a highly effective and practical solution for long range surveillance around military bases. From an altitude of 1000 feet above ground level, it’s sophisticated and stabilized EO/IR Payload provides an unobstructed view of the entire surrounding territory in all directions. This enables prolonged, continuous day/night surveillance and threatdetection.

1.3.3. Communications RelayThe TAR-180 platform can also lift a communication relay, weighting up to 7 kg, to the altitude of up to 1000 feet for increasing ranges of cellular communication, radio communication or data link relays. The main advantages of the communications relay application of TAR-180 system is that it is transportable and flexible for heights and terrains. The TAR-180 system also integrates with any relay and/or communication equipment so there’s a tailored solution for every communication problem.This application enables

the establishment of a new communication cell in cases of communication failure, in disaster areas and in an urgent need to expand a communications network.

2. TAR 180 - System DescriptionThe TAR-180 is an Aerostatic surveillance system, aimed to elevate advanced payloads to an optimal altitude above ground level, while using a flexible, mobile elevating platform. The system facilitates effective observation coverage, targetacquisition, location and surveillance. This system yields topquality, real-time, day and night surveillance imagery to security or military forces, at a low cost in terms of manpower and logistics.The aerostat is operated continuously, at wind velocity of up to 40 knots. It can lift a payload of up to 7 kg. When not in use, the aerostat, payload and auxiliary equipment are packed into towable trailer.The aerostat main tether carries the power and communication, for receiving payload orientation uplink commands andtransmitting downlink video images. The TAR-180 systemalso features an optional wireless data link system. Commandand control of the system is providedby a Ground ControlStation (GCS) console, where separate screens display thedownlink video, received on the wire in the main tether, and a digital map.In addition, the system may include additional mobile terminals as per customer requirements: RVT - Remote Video Terminal RVT level III - Remote Payload Control Station

2.1. Mission CapabilitiesThe TAR-180 provides prolonged airborne surveillance and reconnaissance around any static point.TAR-180’s Military applications:Long duration aerial Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). Military base protection. Aerial communications relay. Area protection and situational awareness.TAR- 180’s Homeland Security and Police applications:Strategic facilities protection


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Coastal surveillanceDetecting illegal immigration, smuggling etc.Public OrderLaw enforcementDisaster monitoringVIP securitySecurity of mass events.

2.2. TAR 180 - Specifications

* These are typical ranges. Actual ranges vary according to selectedsensor model, weather, light and terrain conditions

2.3. System ComponentsThe TAR-180 system several subsystems as follows: Aerostat based elevating segment combined of a helium

filled tethered balloon, an airborne package, a main tether and a ground mooring station. Variety of mission-specific payloads, which may include

Electro-Optical Sensors, Communications relay, Signal Intelligence system etc. A Ground Control Station (GCS) which includes an

operators’ console as well as mission command and control software.

2.3.1. AerostatA 19.5 feet diameter Aerostat filled with helium is used for the TAR-180. The flat oval profile and the specially designed sail of the aerostat give it extra stability in windy conditions.The TAR-180 is capable of operating in winds up to 40 knots and can rise up to 1000 feet AGL. The oval shape makes the TAR-180 easier to handle and deploy than traditional blimp type tethered aerostats. It also enables the system to carry the same weight as bulkier and more expensive aerostats.The Aerostat is manufactured with 3 different materials, set in 2 layers: the interior is highly impermeable to helium leakage yet provides maximum flexibility and expansion, while the outer ballistic nylon fabric layer protects the interior layer from damage and environmental conditions and provides mechanical strength to the balloon.

2.3.2. Airborne PackageThe Airborne package carried by the TAR- 180 aerostat is made of advanced composite materials. It houses the payload and its control equipment, the airborne data-linksub-system. The airborne package includes the following elements: Payload Payload Electronic Box (PEB) AC/DC adapter Video server

The Airborne package is modular - it can carry and interface with various types of payloads.


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2.3.3. EO/IR PayloadThe TAR-180 is capable of carrying and integrating a variety of Electro Optical payloads, up to 7 kg in weight. Payload operation is controlled in real-time via the airborne package by the Ground Control Station. This Day/Night observation system especially configured for use on unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) or aerostats. Electro Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) payloads for the aerostat give a continuous 360o view of the terrain below and enable detection of targets at long ranges, and they are fully gimbaled.TAR-180 can support a variety of EO/IR payloads:T–STAMP,D-STAMP, U–STAMP, A-VIEW, L-VIEW Non-optical payloads: Communication / Relay payloads Signal Intelligence payloads (ELINT, COMMINT, Etc.) GSM interception

2.3.3.1. IR PayloadThe most suitable payload to the TAR-180 is the Short Range Stabilized EO / IR Payloads Systems, a tactical, lightweight (750-3200 grams), balloon mounted payload with real-time, electro-optical, three-axis-stabilized turret system. This payload has full-3 gimbals stabilization.It consists of 4 main units: Graphics card, PowerSupply Card, Harnesses and Stabilized Payload Assembly.

2.3.4. Main TetherThis electric cable, strengthened with coal fiber, fastens the entire aerostat system to the mooring station. The tether terminations are specially designed to maintain maximum breaking strength. The aerostat’s main tether carries the

power and communication, for receiving payload uplink commands and transmitting downlink video images and data.This unique architecture contributes to the system’s communications security, as the data gathered by the payload is not transmitted through the air. It also enables to save precious weight off the airborne package, as neither a power source nor a transmitter is needed.

2.3.5. Mooring SystemThe mooring system is a ground unit which secures the aerostat while it is hovering. The system is used for launching and securing the aerostat and for storing the helium cylinders.The mooring system is designed to fit to trailer. Therefore, it is easily transportable on a standard commercial or military truck.The mooring system includes three sub-systems: Electricity and power sub-system. One main winch and three auxiliary winches. Helium sub-system which includes a manifold for 4 helium

cylinders.The mooring system is connected to the airborne package by the main tether and to the GCS by a LAN communication cable or fiber optics hard line.

2.3.6. Ground Control Station (GCS)The Ground Control Station (GCS) is a full-sized control station designed for prolonged remote control and operation of airborne surveillance platforms. Optionally, the GCS can be located in a distance from the aerostat, connected to


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the TAR - 180 via RF wide-band data-link, or wired communications.The GCS is divided to 2 subsystems:Surveillance and Control - Enables the mission commander/operator to view payload output, control the payload and to manage targets. DVR-Enables the mission commander/operator to review the payload’s recording of the mission video & telemetry for debriefing purposes.

3. Operating the TAR-180 SystemThe TAR-180 system is user friendly and easy to operate.A small team of only two – three personnel can operate andmaintain the entire system and its components.

3.1. TransportationThe TAR - 180 system is highly transportable on the ground and based on a towable trailer.

3.2. Deployment and Mission ReadinessThe TAR-180 system is designed for easy and rapid deployment. Full deployment of the system, including unloading, operational checks, inflating and launch, takes less than 1/2an hour.

There is no need for special infrastructure to deploy andoperate the TAR-180 system: An area with up to a 15 meters radius is needed to deploy and operate the system. Moreover, the mooring station is designed for deployment on unprepared terrain and can be placed on a moderate incline.Therefore, no ground decline measurements are neededbefore deployment. Once the deployment field is chosen,the system can be disconnected from the tow vehicle. Operational checks and inflation of the aerostat takes approximately 15 minutes, and elevation of the aerostat to 1000 feet altitude takes another 10 minutes.The system is as well autonomous in matters of power and helium supply: it is powered by 24v batteries and contains up to 4 helium tanks for refilling helium of the aerostat during the operation days.

3.3. RelocationThe system can easily be relocation to another nearby location. In such a case the operators are not required todeflate the aerostat as it is possible to transport the systemwhile still inflated and docked to the mooring system. Using this method the redeployment will take minutes.

3.4. OperationThe TAR-180 is designed to be operated by field soldiers and law enforcement officers. Operating the system does not require long training or special expertise. The system’s two - three operators manage both the aerostat system and its payloads.Operating system’s payloads from the GCS is user- friendly, and the Human Machine Interface has been designed and constructed with the objectives of implementing appropriate ergonomics principals for long duration missions. There are two mission interfaces: One for mission management and one for payload operation (More info on chapter 2.3.6.).The aerostat needs to be re-filled every 24 hours up to 72 hours.


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3.5. Environmental ResistanceTAR-180 aerostat can be launched and operated in extremely rough conditions: the launch can be performedin ground winds of up to 20 knots. Once elevated, the TAR-180 can withstand winds of up to 40 knots. The system is designed to operate in rough weather conditions, and in high humidity. The standard TAR- 180 withstands temperatures between -15oC - + 60oC. Optionally, the TAR-180 can be modified to withstand harder conditions (-35oC) according to customer’s request.

4. Training, Logistics and MaintenanceThe TAR-180 system is easy to maintain. It only requires small number of personnel and is logistically simple TARsupplies the TAR-180 as a complete turn-key system, with a fully Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) Program, including all the services and equipment needed for successful deployment.

4.1. Training CoursesThe TAR-180 personnel are trained in 2 programs which provide the customer's team with all the skills necessary to operate the system. The programs are: Aerostat, GCS and Payload operator System Technician (O&I-Level)

Each training program consists of theoretical and practicalstages, and runs 2-3 weeks.

4.2. LogisticsTARs' engineers and developers designed the TAR - 180 system to be simple and easy to operate and maintain.There is no need for professional personnel or specific tools to operate and maintain the system. On site preparations, prior to deployment, are also not required.(See chapter 3.1.and 3.2.).

4.3. Ground Support Equipment (GSE)The GSE used for operation of the TAR-180 system is user-friendly. The following items are required to support the TAR- 180 system:

Airborne package Power Cable Stand Helium Pipe Remote control Textile canvas Weather Station (optional).

Mooring net (optional). Generator (optional).

This equipments are used to inflate and deflate the aerostat and for regular system maintenance.

4.4. Maintenance ConceptThere are two levels of maintenance for the TAR- 180 system: The first is a preventive and the second is corrective. Preventive maintenance includes periodical diagnostics performed at scheduled intervals. These diagnostics are designed to discover system malfunctions and repair them.Every three months an O&I-level technician carries out preventive maintenance services on the aerostat mission control station and carrier units.The corrective maintenance deals with malfunctions which developed while the system is in use. The corrective maintenance is on the O&I-level of the GCS, the mooring station electrical assemblies and the mooring station mechanical assemblies.Maintenance of the system is to be carried out as instructed in the manual.Field level aerostat repair: It is possible to use patches included in the repair kit to fix holes in the aerostat inner layer, in case of damage caused to the aerostat.

5. SummaryTAR-180 provides excellent and constant 360 o ISR coverage, day and night, from a commanding 1000 feet vantage point.This advanced and mature system is in use by customers all around the world.Main TAR-180 System advantages include:

Independent, mobile system transportable by towed trailer. Rapid deployment by a small crew with minimal training. Day/night surveillance capability. Self stabilizing payload sends clear live video image, even at high

zoom. Flexible payload control from Ground Control Station remote

compact control station, or tactical Remote Video Terminal (optional). Easy to operate, by only 3 personnel. Aerostat is stable even in high winds - up to 40 knots. Indefinite airborne endurance, with short breaks every 24 - 72 hours

for re-filing helium aerostat. Low maintenance and operational costs.

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World Leader in supplying S.W.A.T Equipment &Training · 1 1.1 The Growing Operational Demand for Persistent Surveillance 1.2 ... also features an optional wireless data link