GRATE II Implementation of a ground deployed system for the evaluation of handling qualities

Abstract

Precise target tracking during ground attacks is an extremely demanding task and therefore, excellent handling qualities are required. In order to facilitate a safe, repeatable, precise, high gain task during simulated ground attack manoeuvres, a ground-based, variable target system termed GRATE II (Graound Attack Test Equipment II), emulating the ground attack flight phase was jointly developed by the German Aerospace Center (Instiute of Flight Systems) and WTD 61. The intention is to utilize this tool for investigations of air-to-surface handling qualities in a realistic, operationally relevant environment. This method employs an array of lighted targets which are placed at predefined positions on the ground. During a prolonged dive attack, the lights are illuminated in a predefined sequence. The task for the pilot consists of acquiring and tracking the respective lighted target expeditiously and precisely until the next target is illuminated. The pilot is forced to react continuously using a high gain piloting technique and thus excite the closed-loop pilot-aircraft-system over a wide frequency and amplitude range. This report gives a detailed description of the installation and the functionality of the system.