Aerial target simulation

The field of aerial target simulation has always been the core of GFD’s work. With its individual, realistic training solutions for the Army, Navy and Air Force GFD is a highly experienced and competent partner for the best possible training of soldiers.

Realistic scenarios are provided for targeted, effective training for all armed services using GFD Learjets 35A and 36A equipped with state-of-the-art, highly specialised technology. The training areas include inter alia: electronic warfare (EW), joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) / close air support (CAS), ground-controlled interception (GCI), intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as ground-based air defence (GBAD) / surface-based air defence (SBAD).

GFD aircraft simulate aerial targets of different types as part of fighter control training or to support air defence exercises. Our planes are equipped with FPR (flight profile recorder), air-to-air TACAN (Tactical Air Navigation) and two UHF radios for this purpose.



towed body IRCM
Learjet with omitted TE towed body

The range of tasks in the field of aerial target simulation with towed bodies includes training for land- and sea-based air defence using automatic cannons as well as guided missiles. The winches mounted under the wings can let out the different targets up to a distance of 6.5 km, which can be recovered at the end of the operation.



Jamkite with LBP NG and AN / ALQ 119-GY
Learjet with Thread Simulator Pod

Another operational focus is live EW training (electronic warfare). In operations designated as "jamkite missions" the GFD Learjets carry false target systems and jammers under the wings. Using these transmitters false target and jamming technology is deployed against the radar and communication units of different weapon systems.



Two-Ship Formation
Learjet with Laser Designator Pod

The Learjet can carry a RAFAEL Litening laser designator pod (LDP) for the training of JTACs (joint terminal attack controllers). Full motion videos can be transmitted to ground troops by means of the integrated video downlink system. Furthermore, in addition to the conventional radio transmission procedures, the GFD Learjets also deploy the so-called DACAS (Digitally Aided Close Air Support) system and thereby offer high quality training.