Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation Techniques Used in the Development of the Sea Harrier Avionic System,

Abstract : Simulation using airborne hardware in the loop during the development of avionic systems is now a well established technique used by airframe and weapon system contractors. However, each new weapon system produces a different set of problems that usually requires a change of technique in order to satisfy test requirements for the system. This paper gives a brief overview of the Sea Harrier avionic system and describes the techniques used by British Aerospace in the development of this system. Descriptions of the special-to-type interfaces required to drive the forward looking radar, navigation system, automatic flight control and HUD/weapon aiming computer are given, along with some specific development problems that were overcome using the techniques described.