NAL Research and VectorNav Technologies are developing inertial navigation systems (INS) with Iridium satellite time and location-aiding to provide resilient assured position, navigation, and timing (APNT) services when global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are experiencing jamming and spoofing. Plans call for the companies to co-develop solutions using VectorNav’s tactical-grade INS and NAL’s Iridium satellite time and location (STL) receivers for aerospace and military applications.
Iridium’s low-earth-orbit satellites are one thousand times stronger than traditional GNSS, meaning the STL signals can penetrate buildings and give better coverage in other GNSS-obstructed areas, according to the companies. VectorNav’s VN-210E GNSS-aided INS integrates with NAL Research’s ALTM Gen2 Mini Iridium STL receiver. “When paired, the system provides a high-rate and continuous position, velocity, and attitude solution, even in dynamic applications and in GNSS-denied environments,” the companies said.
“This complete offering delivered through our high-velocity collaboration with VectorNav will deliver dynamic innovation to the emerging APNT market,” said NAL Research president Robert Bills. “Our partnership streamlines our customers’ implementation of alternative APNT sources. We look forward to helping government and enterprise users achieve operational success by enabling the ability to rapidly implement highly accurate and reliable navigation solutions.”