DESERT SHIELD STORM AAR 27 JUN 91

File: 971208_sep96_decls4_0021.txt
Page: 0021
Total Pages: 24
Subject = DESERT SHIELD STORM AAR  27 JUN 91                              

Box ID = BX001444

Folder Title = DESERT SHIELD STORM AAR                                                                         

Unit = 24TH ID     

Parent Org = XVIII CORPS 


                                'UN@              FILD


               ISSUE:   Vehicle-brientation System (FOA-25)
               DISCUSSION: This piece of     equipment  is the most important asset
  of the FOX  (NNCRS)  next to the mobile mass: spectrometer    (MMI) and the NBC
  overpressure system. Unfortunately this system did not       work as well in the
  desert as one might expect. We used a GPS to input an accurate ten digit grid
..coordinate into the system and used a lefisa-tic compass    to enter our heading to
  the nearest mil. After.an hour or so of use our position was no longer
  accurate and position updates were necessary every few minutes (very difficult
  in the desert with no distinguishable t6rrain features      and inaccurate map
  coverage) so an accurate location could bf-, ascertained. The main problem was
  the fact that the heading function.would not remain accurate and would drift
  even while stationary...This phenomenon wz-.s@ experienced by all vehicles in the
  platoon. Plausible explanations include z@,bundant mineral deposits in the soil
  and/or interference from microwave and radio transmission towers.

               RECOMMENDATION: -A simple solution would involve the addition of a
  GPS (Geographical.Positioning System) on each FOX (NBCRS). An external
..antenna must be ae'consideration since a GIIS will not function when the vehicle
  is.bottoned up. Accurate locations would always be at your disposal (except
  for a short time daily when the GPS windo@-i closes for satellite maintenance)
  and the GPS system can store waypoints and reference points for enhanced
  navigational ability. This system pouplect with the organic navigation system
  of the FOX (NBCRS) would enhance operational aspects ten fold.