R-EGI RPF System Achieves Successful Testing Milestones
Holloman Air Force Base, NM
IS4S, supported by General Dynamics Mission Systems, Kearfott Corporation, and Collins Aerospace, continues to achieve significant milestones in the development of the Resilient-Embedded GPS/INS (R-EGI) Rapid Prototype Flight (RPF) demonstration hardware. Conducted in collaboration with the 746th Test Squadron (TS) at Holloman Air Force Base (AFB), NM, the recent vibration and rapid decompression testing have proven pivotal in advancing the system's readiness for upcoming field demonstrations.
Flight Rack on LTV
The flight rack, integrated with the R-EGI hardware, underwent rigorous vibration testing to simulate the operational conditions expected aboard C-12 aircraft. This testing aimed to assess the system's resilience and durability under mechanical stress. Additionally, the rapid decompression test evaluated the R-EGI system's response to sudden pressure changes, crucial for ensuring its performance in C-12 operational environments.
Following the successful completion of these tests, the R-EGI RPF system achieved another significant milestone through early installation onto the 746th TS's large test vehicle (LTV), surpassing expectations by 1.5 weeks. This accelerated integration underscores the system's robustness and readiness for upcoming functional demonstrations and was made possible through exceptional coordination and support from the 746th TS.
Matthew Jonas, chief engineer for the RPF demonstration, emphasized the significance of these achievements, stating, "This early integration onto the LTV demonstrates the R-EGI RPF's readiness for the upcoming events. The outstanding support and collaboration from the 746th TS has been instrumental in achieving this milestone ahead of schedule."
746th Test Squadron Large Test Vehicle
In addition to validating the system's performance in a mobile setting, the integration effort focused on refining operational procedures for the 746th's flight test engineers, ensuring seamless coordination and execution during forthcoming demonstrations.
Looking ahead, the R-EGI RPF system is set to achieve its next major milestone with a ground mobile LTV demonstration scheduled at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman AFB in July. This demonstration will further showcase the R-EGI architecture's capabilities in a field environment, marking continued progress towards the project's objectives.
The R-EGI RPF hardware demonstration project remains committed to enhancing the R-EGI architecture and mitigating risk in support of the R-EGI program goals.