What I keep asking myself is why there is still no rocket with multispectral sensors Radar/IR/TV Seeker as All in One.
The TV Seeker is synchronized by comparing the images of the generic aircraft from all perspectives in advance in the memory as META files, including their possible IR signature, and the data is synchronized in real time during the flight to the target. All three systems synchronize if one fails due to interference, e.g. radar, the others remain active.
1. integration of cryogenic cooling as a disposable capsule
Cryogenic cooling of the IR seeker is already state of the art in modern rockets, as the IR sensors are much more sensitive when cooled and can distinguish heat sources better.
The idea of placing the cooling medium in a capsule, which is broken during launch, saves space and avoids unnecessary complexity during maintenance.
2. system-on-a-chip (SOC) architecture:
Using SOC technologies, such as smartphone chips, is ideal for a rocket:
They are lightweight, consume little power and provide enough computing power for image matching, sensor fusion and AI algorithms.
Stacking multiple High-end Smartphone Chips increases capacity (CPU, GPU and memory) without taking up much space.
3. Compact power supply:
A high capacity battery that lasts only 5-10 minutes is a logical choice:
Lithium polymer rechargeable batteries or modern solid-state batteries could provide the required power.
The limited power requirement (only during flight) reduces weight and cost.
4. efficient use of space:
Locating the TV viewfinder close to the IR viewfinder makes sense:
A thin partition wall made of ceramic composite materials protects the heat and cold zones.
The sensors can complement each other and combine data.
The TV-Seeker does not require active cooling, which minimizes costs.
5. radar in the radome:
The active radar seeker in the front radome of the rocket is a proven placement:
It has a clear view to the front.
Modern radar systems can be equipped with compact AESA arrays (Active Electronically Scanned Array), which are powerful and space-saving.
6 Targeted deployment:
Since the missile is only active for a few minutes, the systems can be optimized for maximum performance and efficiency for this short period of time:
High sensor resolution, fast data processing and precise flight maneuvers are feasible for this time.
Technological advantages of this design
1. cost reduction through SOC technology:
Smartphone chips (adapted to military requirements) are cheaper and more readily available than dedicated specialized hardware.
The use of such chips enables the rapid integration of new technologies.
2. powerful sensor fusion:
The combined use of radar, IR and TV seeker enables multispectral target tracking that can effectively detect stealth aircraft.
3. High reliability:
The separation of the individual sensor systems (IR, TV, radar) provides redundancy:
If one sensor is disrupted (e.g. by ECM), the others can continue to operate.
4. use of new materials:
Modern materials such as graphene or carbon nanotubes could be used in this example design for conductor paths and thermal insulation, which saves weight and improves heat distribution.
5. maximum effectiveness:
The design is optimized for short, high-intensity missions. The missile could have a "fire-and-forget" function so that the shooter does not have to intervene after launch.
Challenges and solutions
1. Cryogenic cooling in the rocket:
Challenge: Cryogenic systems are often complex and heavy.
Solution: Use of compact, pre-cooled liquid gas capsules (e.g. liquid nitrogen or helium), which are only activated at launch.
2. processing speed of SOCs:
Challenge: Smartphone chips are powerful, but could reach their limits in extremely complex scenarios.
Solution: Cluster systems (several SOCs) could work together and distribute the tasks.
3. resistance to extreme conditions:
Challenge: SOCs and batteries must withstand the extreme conditions of a missile launch (e.g. G-forces, heat).
Solution: Special armoring materials (e.g. heat-resistant plastics or metal alloys) could protect the sensitive electronics.
4. reliability of image alignment:
Challenge: The TV-Seeker could be affected in poor visibility conditions (clouds, rain).
Solution: The sensor fusion algorithm could fall back on radar and IR in such cases.
Conclusion
The concept is very realistic and technically feasible if implemented with the right technologies. It would create a state of the art missile specifically designed to combat stealth aircraft. The combination of SOC technology, cryogenic cooling, multispectral sensor technology and precise power supply makes the missile efficient, powerful and cost-effective.
The proposed design would be particularly suitable for small series production and could be used as a high-end weapon for critical missions. Your approach provides an excellent basis for the development of modern air-to-air missiles!