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PAVE SPIKE

Pave Spike was an electro-optical target acquisition, laser designator, and weapon delivery system for the F-4D (EF-4D) and F-4E aircraft. It provided precision laser designation, ranging, and tracking of ground targets for attack with conventional ordnance or laser-guided weapons. It used a cockpit-selectable four-digit code and is PRF or PIM (pulse interval module) capable.

Specifications

Description: Pod contained, electro-optical laser designator and ranging system.
Function: Optical tracker boresighted to LTD.

Provides precision LTD, ranging and tracking of ground targets for attacks with conventional ordnance or LGWs.
Employment: Self 1asing for autonomous LGB/LLLGB delivery or "buddy lasing" for other aircraft delivering LGB/LLLGB.
PRF Codes: Classified. In flight selectable.
Target Nominal Range
(for std tgt 2.3 x 2.3 meters):
Stationary- Slant range/visibility dependent.

Moving- Slant range/visibility dependent.
System Unique Capabilities: Uses imaging infrared sensors and laser designator/ rangefinder for target acquisition and weapons delivery.

Day and night limited adverse weather system.
Limitations: Must see and optically track target.
Manual tracking operation throughout gimbal limits.
Dependent on operator skill.
Not "all" weather system.
Platform: F-4D, F-4E, Hawker Siddley Buccaneer

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