Analysis of DME/DME Navigation Performance and Ground Network Using Stretched-Front-Leg Pulse-Based DME

Area of Science:

• Aviation Technology
• Navigation Systems Engineering
• Signal Processing

Background:

• Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are primary aircraft navigation tools but are vulnerable to interference and jamming.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is adopting Distance Measuring Equipment (DME)/DME as a backup navigation system by 2030.
• Current DME ranging accuracy (70-300m) is significantly lower than GNSS, impacting positioning performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the accuracy of DME/DME navigation systems.
• To propose an advanced DME technology capable of achieving higher ranging accuracy.
• To develop ground station augmentation algorithms for an improved DME/DME network.

Main Methods:

• Development of an advanced DME utilizing a Stretched-Front-Leg (SFOL) pulse for improved ranging.
• Introduction of optimal ground station augmentation algorithms to upgrade the existing DME network.
• Evaluation of positioning performance and augmented network in diverse terrain regions.

Main Results:

• The proposed SFOL pulse-based DME achieves a ranging accuracy of approximately 30 meters.
• Augmentation algorithms enable DME/DME positioning accuracy up to 0.3 nautical miles (92.6 meters) with minimal new ground sites.
• The system demonstrates effective positioning performance in regions with varying terrain.

Conclusions:

• The advanced SFOL pulse-based DME significantly improves positioning accuracy, making DME/DME a more competent navigation alternative.
• Optimal ground station augmentation strategies are crucial for efficient network transformation.
• The proposed technology offers a viable solution to GNSS vulnerabilities in aircraft navigation.