Background: UH-60 Black hawk helicopters are multi-mission platforms, used for Search and Rescue, force mobilization and other crucial tasks.
Since the outbreak of the October 7th conflict, these platforms have been in high demand.
When every minute counts, GNSS interference causes delays with takeoff and complicating search and rescue operations on behalf of those injured on the battlefield.
infiniDome identified the problem and developed a new and innovative product to assist the Black Hawk in quickly and accurately logging preflight position data even in the most challenged GNSS environments.
Challenge: To complete preflight preparations, the helicopters require an initial GPS fix.
Under GNSS interference the locationfix process takes longer and might even be impossible.
To enable the Black Hawks to takeoff as quickly as possible, we needed to provide externally clear GNSS signals from a “suitcase” style form factor that enabled rapid plug-in and disengagement from the helicopter.
Solution:
To face the challenge, we developed the GPSdome2 Position Loader – an independent unit that can be easily deployed next to the Black Hawk to ensure the reception of GPS signals. The design resulted in a stand-alone system without any power or data connections.
The Position Loader is easy to deploy before take-off and easy to pack and store within the belly of the helicopter, with the simplest technical procedures needed.
As part of the development process, we designed a dedicated flight test unit for the technical team.
Result:
The GPSdome2 Position Loader significantly reduced the time needed for getting the GPS fix which enabled immediate take-off, leading to more efficient rescue operations and lives saved.
Time is of the essence in search and rescue missions. InfiniDome technology ensures that time is on the side of first responders.