Real-time missile tracking with GPS

A system for the economical real-time tracking of expendable long-range test missiles using the GPS is described. In the concept considered, the tracked missile receives the GPS signals, translates a composite signal spectrum to a new S-band frequency, and then transmits the composite S-band spectrum to a ground-station receiver. The ground station receives and processes the translated PS signals into normal pseudorange and range-rate measurements of the missile. A Kalman filter is used to obtain a position and velocity solution. In addition to its capability for stand-alone performance, this system could be incorporated into existing tracking systems, resulting in improved tracking accuracy.