The Aerial Cable Range (ACR) main features are its 2.5 inch Kevlar Cable with 5000,000 lbs breaking strength, 15,500 ft horizontal span and 2,500 ft vertical drop, operating tensions from less than 20,000 to 150,000 lbs, and 20,000 lb lift capability.
The facility provides a wide variety of testing which includes:
- Missile firings, Red and Blue types of Surface to Air (SAM) and Air to Air (ATA)
- Signature measurements (IR, UV, and Radar)
- Submunition Drops
- Antenna Development
- Ground fire characterization
- Aircraft characterization
- Electronic Warfare
- Countermeasure tests
The ACR target can be stationary or dynamic. Dynamic target gravity rolls up to 120 knots and rocket boosted rolls up to 240 knots can be attained. ACR can position targets anywhere along the cable and have targets rotated in 5 degree increments for different aspects. Depending on the target weight and size, targets can be lifted from ground level to a maximum of 1000 feet above ground level (AGL). On board video links, timing, GPA, remote control via Labview, modems, and wireless LANS can be accommodated.
The ACR is capable of high repeatability of test scenarios, target velocity, position and control. Multiple launches are possible, as well as, dual firings with any desired time separation.