L-3 Avionics Systems introduces powerful and compact TACAN+

L-3 Avionics Systems announced today the release of a new, higher performing version of the company's TACAN Tactical Airborne Navigation System unit, the TACAN+. With more power and increased functionality, TACAN+ is a feature-rich navigation system that remains the smallest and lightest TACAN available. TACAN+, which is available immediately, will be on display at the L-3 booth at the Farnborough International Airshow, July 19–23, Hall 4, Stand F14.

"TACAN+ has more than twice the power of our previous model and adds numerous features, such as a MIL-STD-1553 interface, enhanced transient protection circuitry, improved tracking algorithms, real-time identification, and both bearing and distance information in air-to-air mode," said Larry Riddle, vice president of business development for L-3 Avionics Systems. "This broad array of new features and functionalities allows us to expand into the tactical aircraft and strategic airlifter markets, in addition to serving our current customers in the fixed-wing and helicopter markets."

TACAN+ is a remotely controlled, multi-station tracking navigation system designed for air-to-ground and air-to-air use. The 5.2-pound unit is the only TACAN that allows pilots to monitor up to four stations simultaneously in range mode and two in bearing mode. Users are able to display information for two stations at once on a standard cockpit display. Multiple input/output busses update the flight management or inertial navigation systems concurrently. TACAN+ employs software-controlled antenna switching, allowing the aircraft to be configured for dual antennas, if needed. A maximum tracking velocity of 1800 knots allows for accurate navigation during high-speed flight or rapid air-to-air closure rates.

TACAN+ was designed with rugged military environments in mind. The system has been tested to MIL-STD-810G, MIL-STD-704 and MIL-461E, as well as meeting DO-160F helicopter vibration levels. The TACAN+ system features lightning protection circuitry and is subjected to Highly Accelerated Stress Screening (HASS) and Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) to achieve maximum system reliability.

L-3 Avionics Systems has been helping pilots fly for more than 45 years. The company provides a wide array of avionics technologies designed to improve situational awareness and enhance safety, such as the GH-3000 electronic and J.E.T.® standby instruments, the SkyWatch® Collision Avoidance System, the Stormscope® Weather Mapping System and the Trilogy™ Electronic Standby Instrument, among others.