GPS Receiver Assembly
WEDC's defense microelectronics products are used in military GPS receiver assemblies in guided missiles and
munitions guidance technology. A GPS receiver assembly provides significant cost, size and power reduction improvements through miniaturization, which are needed to successfully incorporate a complete navigation system into the small physical space available in the munitions. Unguided free-fall bombs are being converted into accurately guided “smart” weapons with low-cost precision guidance kits.
WEDC space-saving defense microelectronics contribute to GPS receiver miniaturization, allowing smaller and smaller munitions to be outfitted with the technology. Instead of being launched solely from aircraft, now mortars launched from the ground – by soldiers themselves, or artillery – can shoot with GPS accuracy.
The military enter the coordinates into the GPS receiver prior to launch. The projectile has a range of 25 to 30 kilometers and with a Circular Error of Probability of 5 to 50 meters; the projectile can strike within 25 meters of the target. The receiver spins up to 22,000 revolutions per minute, receives shock up to 20,000 times the force of gravity, and must acquire three satellites’ positioning data within a few seconds. Gun-hardening the GPS receiver assembly electronics to withstand a hostile environment is a key parameter.
In addition to serving aboard missiles and larger munitions, WEDC military GPS receivers will be installed on service members’ radios. The warfighter can then communicate through an encrypted signal to know everyone else’s location, without the enemy intercepting the communication.
All new weapon platforms that utilize GPS technology are now mandated by the DOD to include
anti-tamper technology . WEDC, as a trusted electronic manufacturer, offers products and processes to manufacture military GPS receivers with the
defense information assurance techniques.
