Target location technology, tracking systems.

The US Army also uses a laser as a target locator.  It has been developed into a hand held laser targeting technology that doesn’t damage eyes.  Currently they are largely ground based but they allow targets to be located and intensified even in the dark.  This technology has been transferred onto a military fighter aircraft for range finding in light and dark environments.  The system also gives a range finder which can vary between the direct view and an intensified view.  The system can digitally provide a magnetic compass that gives range and elevation.  They are already used across the world.

Another possible technology is the use of intelligent radar systems that lock onto targets allowing missile to be guided.  This technology can be found on the patriot missile, which is aimed at incoming missiles.  The system depends on ground-based radar that locates and tracks targets however this technology could be developed to fit on an aircraft like the sidewinder missile.  This is a very long ranging and variable system.  It can run automatically or an operator can intervene if necessary but these need to be very accurate due the speed the missiles travel at. The radar antenna can scan the sky, identify targets, determines aim and positioning of target, gives information and can help direct the missile to the target even when missile has been launched.  Two operators watch the progress of the missiles, they can then change things if necessary such as deselecting targets.  One form of missile has its own in-built guidance computer and radar transmitter allowing it to guide itself.

Benefits and limitations