• Next-generation, precision selectable height-of-burst (HOB),
    radar proximity fuze sensor
  • Miniature (MOFA) form-factor
  • Effective even when targets are obscured by foliage or revetments
  • Supports HOB, near surface burst (NSB) and penetrator modes
  • Highly flexible, software-controlled radar


THE PROBLEM

Fuze requirements have evolved to the point of demanding programmable HOB capability over terrain obscured by combinations of foliage, structures, changes in ground contour, battlefield obscurants, and electromagnetic interference. Mustang’s Fuze Air-to-Surface Technology (FAST) is a significant advance in proximity fuze technology but the DSU-33 form-factor is not compatible with smaller munitions such as the SDB and artillery rounds.

Currently, small munitions and submunitions are unable to achieve the additional lethality and efficiency that FAST technology enables. Therefore, it is important that advanced fuze technologies make their way into smaller form factors to enhance the performance of small, modern weapons.

THE SOLUTION

Mini FAST, like its predecessor, is designed as a frequency- and waveform-agile, wideband, active RF proximity sensor capable of providing accurate, programmable HOB in the presence of foliage, weather, and battlefield obscurants. However, the new, miniature form-factor is adaptable to SDB and other small munitions.

THE APPROACH

Mustang is developing a cost-effective and producible miniature software-controlled radar that addresses current fuze sensor cost drivers and leverages modern component technology, innovative modulation techniques and advanced algorithms. Miniaturization of the FAST technology has great potential for future utilization in increasing the effectiveness of miniature munitions across a wide variety of weapon systems, small UAVs, and even artillery and mortar rounds that require a precision selectable height of burst fuze sensor to increase lethality.

THE TECHNOLOGIES

High-performance radar; RF and digital electronics; real-time signal processing; modern components and packaging, advanced algorithms; progressive test approach; high-fidelity launch-to-burst simulation.

This material is based upon work supported by the United States Air Force under Contract No. FA8651-07-C-0107. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the United States Air Force.


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