1. Background. The Indian Combat
Helicopter has an air to air mode for its turret gun. An aerial target was
used during training and trials. However during the trials critical drawbacks
were noticed in the currently available aerial target rendering it unsuitable
for being used as an aerial target for the purpose of air to air mode of
firing. There was a longstanding requirement of a suitable aerial target as the
currently available targets fell short of the requirements.
2. ACHUK
Mk 1 Aerial Target. The
aforesaid difficulties were addressed by the team of two enthusiastic flight
test engineers of HAL, Bangalore and ARMY. Another enthusiastic friend joined midway
between the project implementation. This has resulted in development of a
tractor towing the aerial target. The team addressed the critical drawbacks for
developing a suitable tractor which should:-
a) tow a realistic target.
b) have recording facility for debrief.
c) be safe when flying with a manned aircraft.
d) be easily controllable and reprogrammable.
e) be small for ease of transportation (foldable, man portable, light).
f) not require a runway or helipad to take off and land and can be operated from a
field.
g) be low cost and easily maintainable.
3. Execution, Trials and Operation. AHCUK Mk 1 was designed based on the
defined requirements by the three enthusiasts. Prototype was build and trials
were carried out at a field of an acquaintance. The team funded the prototype
and tested it over a period of three months. The target was assessed by HAL
experts on 06 Jul 2023.
5. Conclusion.
Pictures of ACHUK Mk 1 Aerial Tractor (blurred in pic) Target with Combat Helicopter
