Inertial Navigation Systems’ tendency to drift can be partially addressed by updating the “Fix”. Several techniques can be used; this video shows how to perform an INS Fix Update via TACAN, GCI or Bullseye.
A broad discussion covering several points related to “FOX-1” Semi-Active Radar-Homing missiles started by a small “accident”. The discussion evolved through the FLO concept and max-range employment effects and value, SARH missiles from the AIM-7 to the R-27, tactics, timeline, conversions and more.
Ultimately, the goal was to provide a critical starting point encompassing a variety of topics and address some misconceptions.
This chapter of the Back to Basics series focuses on the INS, the acronym for Inertial Navigation System. Often misunderstood or taken for granted, understanding the limitations, features, and potential issues of the INS is fundamental, along with knowing the alternative means the crew can use for navigation.
Bullseye and Nav references increase situational awareness and ease navigation. The F-4E-45MC’s AN/ASN-63 INS does not provide ad hoc tools to take advantage of them. However, the crew can easily overcome limitations with the here-discussed tools and some practice.
“Leapfrogging” is a handy technique for INS navigation on the F-4E-45MC Phantom II. Its AN/ASN-63 Inertial Navigation System is, in fact, quite basic and allows for the storage of only a single reference point.
This is the second part of the TWR, Fuel & Performance study about F-4E-45MC, MiG-21bis and Mirage F1CE. This time, the three fighter jets are directly compared.
