The development progress of the U.S. Army's SASS LITE, unmanned robot airship

Abstract

1988. this unrnannec Abstract Since project inception in airship has received high acceptance from airspace This paper summarizes the Small Aerostat managers. Its docile characteristics, redundant Surveillance Sys tem, Low Intensity Target systems, and high reliability have been key features Exploitation (SASS LITE) unmanned airship in obtaining acceptance for use. The community's development effort. It reports on the current general agreement that the robot airship does not status and operationsand discusses potential future applications. SASS LITE fills two voids in the UAV community: 1) It offers a reliable, noninterfering mobile airborne instrumentation platform, and 2) It offers a long endurance, stable platform ideal for detailed, high resolution survey of low intensity targets. The developmental funding history, details of acceptance by airspace managers for operations in close proximity to air traffic and ground personnel, the evolution of the electronic control systems, and the various sensor payloads are highlighted. Finally, the paper discusses emerging applications and demands.