PREPARATION FOR FLIGHT

The drone should be spotted on the launch area and secured to the deck with the pre-launch tie down device, which is equipped with a remotely actuated release (see figure 3 below in “Description” section, item 33).

FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS

Refer to “Operating Limitations” and “Flight Characteristics” sections for operating limitations and flight characteristics, respectively

Wherever reference is made to "true airspeed", refer to the airspeed calibration data in “Performance Data” section for the command readout required to produce the desired true airspeed of the drone.

MISSION PLANNING

  Determine the drone gross weight with full fuel load. Obtain pertinent weather information, including ambient conditions. Determine which transmitter-coder combination and which antenna is to be used for the mission. Determine the mission envelope by referring to the performance data in Appendix 1.

    The elapsed time indicators on both the control monitor and CIC control should be used to register total engine running time for each mission. The timer on the control monitor starts when the engine starting cycle is initiated, and should not be reset to 0 after the engine has started. The timer on the CIC control should be reset to 0 when the deck controller initiates the engine start cycle so that both timers are synchronized.

Check the number and type of weapons to be carried, weapon depth settings, and weapon turning direction.

Search the target control system frequency for interference.

Check the operation of the interphone system between the deck and CIC control stations. Check the operation of the interphone system between the control stations and the target control system test set monitoring room (DASH transmitter room).

COMMAND MONITORING AND RECORDING 

Throughout all drone missions, continuous voice communication should be maintained between the drone controller, deck or CIC, and the technician monitoring the Audio Frequency Decoder KY-433/SRM (BCD-24) (part of Target Control System Test Set AN/SRM-4). The controller must announce each command or change of command and the technician must affirm a satisfactory decoder readout or report a discrepant readout. The technician must also report any deviation from a steady state command.

During the entire drone mission, except during launching and landing, the technician should maintain a continuous record of all new commands and resultant test set readouts, together with the mission time or real time at which made.

In the event of deterioration of the data link, refer to the "Emergency Procedures section". Attempts should be made to return the drone to the ship and land it on the deck if possible.

PREFLIGHT CHECK

Check the preflight inspection completion report to determine drone status. Make certain that the preflight avionics functional check has been completed (MRC J- 54 R- 2). Check the date of the last weekly avionics functional check (MRC J-54 W-2). Check the date of the last target control system test and inspection (MRC J-31 W-1).

PRELIMINARY CONTROL SETTINGS

  Set the shipboard guidance controls at the deck station as follows:

Make certain that any drone undergoing test in the hangar has its decoder address selector set at a different address from the drone being flown, so that it will not respond to flight commands.

1.  Control Monitor:

a.  MASTER switch--OFF.
B.  TRANSFER switch- -DRONE.
c.  AUTO-PURGE-MANUAL switch--MANUAL.
d.  GYRO switch--OUT.
e.  DRONE ANGLE REL TO SHIP pointer--aligned with drone (pointer indicates engine air inlet).
f.   ELAPSED TIME indicator--60.

2.  Transmitter Control (Deck):

a.  HV switch--OFF.
b.  CODER switch--EXTERNAL.
c.  KEYED CARRIER-CONSTANT CARRIER swit6h--CONSTANT CARRIER.
d.  ANT. SEL switch--STBD.
e.  XMTR 1-XMTR 2 switch--XMTR 1.
f.   PWR switch--ON. (Wait one minute, minimum.)
g.  HV switch--ON.

3.  Deck Control:

a.  CRUISE-MANUV switch--CRUISE.
b.  MEMORY-STATION switch--STATION.
c.  WEAPONS JETTISON switch--off.
d.  SPARES ON switches--off.
e.  ENG OFF switch--on.
f.   CABLE REL switch--off.
g.  ADDRESS knob--at drone address.
h.  PWR ON switch--on.
i.  ALTITUDE knob--at 000 readout.
j.  AIRSPEED knob--at 00 FWD readout.
k.  HEADING pointer--aligned with drone.

4.  Turn motor-generator output circuit breakers off.
5.  Connect the AFC set and engine umbilical cables.
6.  Turn motor-generator output circuit breakers on.
7.  Turn control monitor MASTER switch to ON and turn TRANSFER switch to AUX.

When Telemetric Data Transmitter T-1014/AKT-20 is installed and energized, a radiation hazard exists within 2 feet of Antenna AS-1886/AKT-20.

8.   Press RESET switch to return the ELAPSED TIME indicator to 60.

9.   Monitor auxiliary generator output voltages by turning the VOLTAGE MONITOR knob to positions 1 through 9. The meter should indicate within the acceptable band at each position, except that on position 1, the indication may be to the left of center. After monitoring voltages, leave the knob set at position 6 (40 volts DC from the airborne power supply).

Make certain that the VOLTAGE MONITOR meter pointer remains in the acceptable area on the meter at each position.

Set the shipboard guidance controls at CIC as follows:

1.   Transmitter Control (CIC):

a.  CODER switch--EXTERNAL.
b.  KEYED CARRIER - CONSTANT CARRIER switch--CONSTANT CARRIER. 
c.  ANT. SEL switch--STBD.
d.  XMTR I - XMTR 2 switch--XMTR 1. 
e.  PWR switch--OFF. 
f.   HV switch--ON. 

The deck station transmitter control (C-2801/SRW-4) PWR switch must be turned on before the CIC transmitter control (C-2804/SRW-4) PWR switch in order to provide initial command authority for the deck drone controller. The CIC transmitter control PWR switch should remain in the OFF position until just prior to the transfer of command.

2.   CIC Control:

a.  WEAPON ARM switch--off. 
b.  SPARES ON switches--off.
c.  MEMORY-STATION switch--MEMORY. 
d.  WEAPON RELEASE switches--off. 
e.  ADDRESS knob--at drone address. 
f.   PWR ON switch--on.
g.  ALTITUDE knob--at 000 readout.
h.  AIRSPEED knob--at 00 FWD readout.
i.   HEADING pointer--same true heading as at deck station. 
j.   ELAPSED TIME indicator--running.

Make certain that the airspeed readout at both deck station and CIC is at 00 FWD (the right-hand side of the AIRSPEED window). If 00 shows at the AFT (left) side of the window, it is equivalent to a 100 knot aft airspeed command!

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

Observe the following precautions before starting the engine:
 
Refer to figure 2 for danger areas and ground clearances. 

Make certain that the ADS OPERATE lights on both deck and CIC transmitter controls are on and that both engine and AFC set umbilical cables are connected.

Make certain that the ALT SYNC and GYRO SLAVING meters are nulled. Pinch the rubber tube near its point of attachment to the barometric altitude control mounting bracket. The pointer of the ALT SYNC meter should oscillate slightly as the tube is pinched and released. If the pointer does not oscillate, the drone should not be flown until the discrepancy is corrected.

The GYRO SLAVING meter should indicate within the green band or oscillate uniformly and equally beyond each side of the green band (not hitting the stops) before power is transferred to the airborne generator.

Make certain that the cyclic control locks are engaged.

Make certain that the launching area is clear of personnel and equipment.

STARTING ENGINE (AUTOMATIC SEQUENCE)

Allow a 2 minute cooling period between each 30 second cranking cycle. After cranking for a total of 90 seconds, allow the starter- generator to cool for 10 minutes minimum.

STARTING ENGINE (AUTOMATIC SEQUENCE) - CONTINUED

1.  Set AUTO-PURGE-MANUAL switch to AUTO.

2.  Momentarily depress the AUTO START button.

3.  After the engine has been running for 6 to 9 seconds, check for an indication of rising exhaust gas temperature on the EXH TEMP meter of the control monitor.

4.  Check the engine OIL PRESS indicator on the control monitor. If, after 25 to 35 seconds of engine rotation, there is no engine oil pressure indicated, shut down the engine. If the TRANSMISSION PRESS indicator light fails to go out within 25 to 35 seconds of the engine start, shut down the engine. If the transmission oil temperature light goes on, shut down the engine.

If combustion occurs but the engine fails to accelerate to flight idle rpm, stop the engine immediately using data link, to prevent damage to the engine.

During the starting cycle and until the rotor speed is stabilized, the exhaust gas temperature should not exceed 1200º F. Refer to the "Performance Data" section for charts of stabilized exhaust gas versus ambient temperature.

5.  Observe the % ROTOR RPM meter. If the pointer moves past a point approximately 1/16 inch beyond the extreme right-hand graduation of the scale (approximately 115%), press the control monitor engine STOP switch immediately. After the TRANSFER switch has been turned to DRONE, use the deck control ENG OFF switch; do not use the control monitor engine STOP switch.

6. Increase altitude command until COLLECTIVE FOLLOW UP POSITION meter on the control monitor indicates 10.

PURGING ENGINE

After a start failure and prior to a new start attempt, the engine must be purged of accumulated fuel. To purge the engine, proceed as follows:

1. Set AUTO-PURGE-MANUAL switch on control monitor to PURGE position.

2. Momentarily depress AUTO START switch. The engine will purge itself and automatically stop after 30 seconds.

3.   If the engine does not stop after 30 seconds, depress STOP switch.

Allow a 2 minute cooling period between each 30 second cranking period. After cranking for a total of 90 seconds, allow the starter to cool for 10 minutes.

MANUAL ENGINE START

Observe the same precautions during a manual engine start as would be observed during an automatic engine start.

1.  Set AUTO-PURGE-MANUAL switch on the control monitor to MANUAL. 

2.  Move the START-PREHEAT switch to START and hold.

3.  Wait 4 to 6 seconds, and momentarily depress the FUEL ON button.

4.  Continue to hold the START-PREHEAT switch in the START position until the ELAPSED TIME indicator reads 25 to 30 seconds, or until the % ROTOR RPM meter pointer enters the green area, whichever occurs first.

5.  Release the START-PREHEAT switch.

6.  Repeat steps 3 through 6 of automatic start procedure.

DRONE CONTROL SYSTEM PRELAUNCH TESTS

Prior to launching the drone, the operation of the flight control system and the data link should be checked while the drone is tied down on the deck. The tests to be performed are listed in figure 3.

In performing the pre-launch command tests, do not allow any of the follow-up position meters to remain at full scale deflection any longer than is necessary; under no circumstances, more than an absolute maximum of 3 seconds. Severe damage to the magnetic clutches in the servo actuator may result if this limit is exceeded.

In performing the pre-launch command tests, do not exceed 100 feet of altitude command.

If the ship changes heading before the drone is launched, the heading card and pointer in the deck control will remain fixed with respect to true north, creating a relative mis- alignment between the pointer and the drone. The heading pointer on both deck and CIC controls must be readjusted accordingly as soon as possible. When the ship is maneuvering this must be monitored continuously and readjustments made accordingly.  

    Make certain that the % ROTOR RPM indicator pointer is between 95% and 110% before turning the TRANSFER switch to DRONE.

      If the cyclic control locks do not disengage when the TRANSFER switch is turned to DRONE, do not attempt to disengage them manually. Stop the engine by moving the ENG OFF switch on the deck control in the direction of the arrow. If this fails to stop the engine, return the TRANSFER switch to AUX and press the control monitor engine STOP switch.

PREPARATION FOR TEST

Before starting the pre-launch command tests set forth in figure 3, the following preparatory steps must be accomplished.

1. With the TRANSFER switch still at AUX (control locks engaged), turn the CRUISE-MANUV switch to MANUV. Check for roll and pitch command response by moving the maneuver stick slightly. The ROLL and PITCH FOLLOW UP POSITION meters should indicate a small deflection in the appropriate direction. Leave the CRUISE-MANUV switch at MANUV.

2. Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to MEMORY. Turn the TRANSFER switch to DRONE. The AUX light should go out and the DRONE light should go on. Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION. If necessary, readjust the altitude command to produce a COLLECTIVE FOLLOW UP POSITION meter indication of 10. Record the altitude readout. This setting is referred to hereinafter as "10% collective. "

If the VOLTAGE MONITOR meter pointer does not register within or drifts out of the acceptable area, stop the engine immediately by moving the deck control ENG OFF switch in the direction of the arrow.

3. Check for control lock disengagement by moving the maneuver stick slightly in pitch and roll to produce approximately 10 percent displacement on the related FOLLOW UP POSITION meter. 

If 10 percent displacement cannot be achieved (due to failure of the control locks to disengage), stop the engine immediately by moving the deck control ENG OFF switch in the direction of the arrow.

4. Turn the VOLTAGE MONITOR knob to positions 1 through 9. The meter pointer should indicate within the acceptable area on the meter at each position, except position 1 which may indicate to the left of center.

5. Turn the VOLTAGE MONITOR knob to position 6. The pointer should remain in the acceptable area.

6. Proceed with the prelaunch command tests shown in figure 3. Control response indications should follow the command inputs without jerkiness or discontinuity.

Make certain that the VOLTAGE MONITOR knob is at position 6.

PREPARATION FOR LAUNCHING

    The manner in which the drone is launched from the deck is dependent upon the direction Of the relative wind. The maneuver stick should be deflected in the direction toward the relative wind, regardless of drone heading, so that, as the drone lifts off the deck, it will hover over the deck. Thus, its "airspeed" will be equal to the velocity of the relative wind. This airspeed must be maintained until the drone is clear of the ship, then increased as the drone climbs out.

When using the maneuver stick in flight, avoid prolonged large displacements. For all normal flight operations in the maneuver mode, a maximum of approximately 30 percent of maneuver stick displacement from neutral should be adequate.

Completion of the prelaunch command tests listed in figure 3 chart, above, will confirm drone readiness for launching.

In order to assure that the controls and switches are in their proper positions, the left-hand column of the Deck Controller's Check List (figure 4-at bottom) should be checked immediately before launching. The check to be made for each item is listed below. The applicable controls and switches should be synchronized between deck and CIC prior to launch and transfer. (The explanation of the right-hand column of figure 4 appears under the paragraph heading RETURNING COMMAND TO DECK in this section.)

DECK CONTROLLER'S CHECK

See figure 4, Left-hand column

Make certain that the airspeed readout is at 00 FWD (the right-hand side of the AIRSPEED window). If 00 shows at the AFT (left) side of the window, it is equivalent to 100 knot aft airspeed command.

    The left-hand column of the CIC Controller's Check List (figure 2-5) should be checked before launching. The check to be made for each item is listed below. (The explanation of the right-hand column of figure 5 appears under the paragraph heading RETURNING COMMAND TO DECK in this section.)

CIC CONTROLLER'S CHECK 

See figure 5, Left-hand column

LAUNCHING THE DRONE

In launching the drone from a rolling and/or pitching deck, the launch should be made as the ship passes through an even keel attitude in roll, in the direction into the relative wind, and at a stern high attitude in pitch.

The remaining steps required to launch the drone are, in the order listed:

1. Increase altitude command, by rotating the ALTITUDE knob, until the COLLECTIVE FOLLOW UP POSITION meter indicates 15.

2. Press UMBILICAL RELEASE switch. (The umbilical cables should disconnect.)

3. Move ALTITUDE RATE switch up momentarily. (The tie down device should disconnect.)

    As soon as the tie down device falls to the deck, release the ALTITUDE RATE switch and use the ALTITUDE knob and maneuver stick to keep the drone 5 to 10 feet over the launching spot for approximately 20 seconds. Using the maneuver stick, move the drone away from the ship in the direction into the relative wind. Twist the maneuver stick as required to head the drone fuselage into the relative wind while maintaining the drone flight path into the relative wind. Make certain that the antenna is in its downward position.

Do not allow the drone to drift downwind since this has the effect of a reduction of airspeed, with the accompanying reduction of lift and/or increase of horsepower required.

As the drone accelerates from a "no-wind" hover into horizontal flight, it passes through a brief transitional period. A slight settling may be observed due to the change in the function of the rotors. For this reason, it is important that the altitude and airspeed commands be coordinated smoothly to prevent inadvertent contact of the skids with the deck.

A safe minimum altitude must be maintained at all times that the drone is airborne. 

    As the drone moves out over the edge of the deck, another brief settling may be noted. This is due to moving out of ground effect as the vertical space under the rotors is abruptly increased by approximately 19 feet.

It should be remembered that, in the maneuver mode, the drone moves through the air in the same direction as the displacement of the stick, regardless of the heading of the drone fuselage.

LOW PRESSURE AND HIGH TEMPERATURE TECHNIQUES

In launching the drone under conditions of low barometric pressure and high temperature, proceed as follows:

1.  Launch the drone into the relative wind, applying the minimum altitude and airspeed commands required to become airborne. Hover the drone 5 to 8 feet over the deck for approximately 20 seconds, then gradually increase airspeed and altitude.

2.  Do not make downwind turns below a minimum of 20 to 25 knots airspeed. 

MANEUVER TO CRUISE SWITCH-OVER

    The switch-over from the maneuver to the cruise mode may be made after the drone is clear of the ship. Normal operation in the maneuver mode should be limited to 300 yards, maximum.

To accomplish the switch-over, proceed as follows:

1.  Adjust the airspeed command (FWD) to equal the velocity of the relative wind. (See airspeed calibration data in “Performance Data” section)

2.  Turn the drone to a heading into the relative wind, plus or minus 30 degrees.

3.  Hold the drone at a hover and turn the CRUISE-MANUV switch to CRUISE.

4.  Increase true airspeed to 50 knots. After 5 seconds turn the drone to a heading in the direction of the target.

Do not fly the drone directly over the transmitting antenna.

While in the cruise mode with aft airspeed commanded, do not command any turns. 

FLYING THE DRONE

Refer to "Operating Limitations", "Flight Characteristics" and "Performance Data" sections for their respective information relating to flying the drone.

In the cruise mode, the drone is controlled through the AIRSPEED and HEADING knobs and the ALTITUDE knob or, on the deck control only, the ALTITUDE RATE switch. In the cruise mode, turns are automatically coordinated. In the cruise mode, the maneuver stick should not be used for commanding turns.

In commanding turns greater than 90 degrees, in which either a full white or a full black sector will be spanned, the drone heading must occupy the sector being spanned before the heading pointer is turned out of that sector.

For example, if a turn from 80 degrees to 190 degrees is to be commanded, the drone heading must actually have passed 90 degrees before the pointer is turned past 180 degrees on the dial. Failure to observe this caution will result in an inadvertent turn reversal and may result in the loss of the drone. Deliberate heading command reversals should be avoided. Refer to the paragraph headed TURN LIMITATIONS in the "Operating Limitations" section.

Do not make downwind turns at less than 20 knots airspeed and less than 100 feet of actual altitude.

Except as otherwise required during launching and landing, a forward true airspeed of 30 to 60 knots should be maintained during ascents, and 40 to 60 knots during descents.

Avoid high g-load maneuvers such as rapid changes in airspeed commands and sudden large changes in altitude command, except as required during launching and landing operations.

    After switching to the cruise mode, command the drone to execute a smooth climb-out to a minimum commanded altitude of 300 feet, and prepare to transfer command to CIC. The best climb speed is approximately 50 knots, true airspeed.

TRANSFER TO CIC

    Whenever possible, transfer of control should be made while the drone is visible to the deck controller, Transfer of control from deck to CIC may be made after the CIC controller has made positive identification of the drone on his radar display. Identification may be confirmed by having the deck controller command an identification pattern.   The transfer should be made at a true airspeed of approximately 50 knots. Since this constitutes the best climb airspeed of the drone, the CIC controller can immediately command mission altitude. The transfer is accomplished according to the sequence set forth below.

In transferring command from one station to the other, it is essential that continuous voice communication between the two stations be maintained, and that each action taken be announced; e.g. "I am switching to STATION   --- NOW." 

1. CIC synchronizes airspeed, altitude, and heading controls with deck and turns the CIC transmitter control (C-2804/SRW-4) PWR switch to ON.

2. Deck turns MEMORY -STATION switch to MEMORY.

3. Deck turns deck transmitter control (C-2801/ SRW-4) PWR switch to OFF, then immediately re- turns PWR switch to ON. Deck turns MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION in the event it becomes necessary to make an emergency return of command to deck.

4. CIC turns MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION, informing the deck controller as he does so. CIC then controls the drone using the AIRSPEED, ALTITUDE, and HEADING knobs. The deck controller observes the drone to make certain that CIC has acquired control.

5. CIC commands an identification pattern to confirm control. The pattern should, if possible, be observed by both CIC and deck controllers.

6. When CIC control is confirmed, deck turns transmitter control (C-2801/SRW-4) PWR switch to OFF.

The modulated fm carrier, which controls the drone, and the radar beam, which tracks the drone, require line of sight contact. Thus, as the drone distance from the ship increases, drone altitude must be increased accordingly. Refer to the "Performance Data" section for altitude versus range (distance to horizon) data and to "Operating Limitations" section for data link control range.

TRANSFER TO CIC IN LOW VISIBILITY

    Under conditions of low visibility or extensive sea return on the radar, the deck controller may lose visual contact with the drone before the drone can be identified on the radar display. Under such conditions, the drone should be commanded to climb out to a minimum actual altitude of 150 feet. When the drone appears on the radar display, transfer of command to CIC may be made in the normal manner as described above. An identification pattern may be commanded to confirm control.

A dead reckoning plot of the drone track should be maintained by CIC until the drone is picked up on radar and positively identified. In the event that radar contact cannot be established, the drone can be directed back to the ship and landed by the deck controller.

CHANGING ADDRESS

If more than one drone is being controlled from the ship, the 'MEMORY-STATION switch must be turned to MEMORY before the ADDRESS switch is turned to any other position. After the alternate address has been selected, return the MEMORY- STATION switch to STATION.

Before switching from one address to another, record the existing airspeed, altitude, and heading of the drone before it is placed on memory. Reestablish these settings before reassuming command of that drone.

LOSS OF CARRIER

    If carrier is lost while the drone is under station control, the drone will assume a "no-wind" hover at its commanded altitude. If carrier is lost while the drone is executing a turn command, the drone will complete the turn to the commanded heading. If carrier is lost while the drone is executing an altitude change command, the drone will complete the execution of the command. If carrier is lost while the drone is on memory, the drone remains on memory, and continues to obey its last commands.

Do not switch to the alternate transmitter and/or antenna while the drone is airborne, except in an emergency. 

FLIGHT CHARACTERISTICS

    Information on the flight characteristics of the drone is contained in “Flight Characteristics” section. For performance data, refer to the “Performance Data” section.

WEAPON DROPPING

    Arm the weapons by actuating the WEAPON ARM switch. Release the weapons by actuating the WEAPON RELEASE switches 1 and 2, as desired.

Turn the WEAPON RELEASE switches off within 5 seconds to prevent damage to the release solenoids!

    Refer to the “Performance Data” section for the drop envelope of the Torpedo Mark 44 or Mark 46. The drone should be maintained at constant airspeed and altitude within the envelope at time of weapon drop. 

RETURNING COMMAND TO DECK

    Transfer of control from CIC to deck should be made after the deck controller has made visual contact with the drone. In order to assure that all controls and switches are in their proper positions prior to transfer, the right-hand columns of the Controller's Check List (figures 4 and 5) should be checked. All applicable controls and switches must be synchronized between CIC and deck prior to returning command to deck. The check to be made for each item is listed below.

As the drone approaches the point of transfer, the deck controller must turn the deck transmitter control (C-2801/SRW-4) PWR switch to ON.

CIC CONTROLLER'S CHECK 

See figure 5, RIGHT-hand column

     The transfer of command from CIC to deck is accomplished according to the following sequence. The transfer should be made at a true airspeed of approximately 50 knots.

1. CIC turns MEMORY-STATION switch to MEMORY.

2. CIC turns CIC transmitter control (C-2804/SRW-4) PWR switch to OFF, then immediately, returns PWR switch to ON.

3. Deck turns MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION, informing CIC as he does so, and takes command of the drone.

4. When deck control is confirmed, CIC turns transmitter control (C-2804/SRW-4) PWR switch to OFF.

APPROACH AND LANDING

    The final approach to the ship should be planned and made smoothly to bring the drone to a heading into the relative wind at a point off the quarter. Factors to be taken into consideration in planning the approach are relative wind direction and velocity, drone gross weight, turbulence, and ship motion.

    A typical approach is shown in figure 6. Figure 7 may be used as a guide in determining whether the landing should be made from the port or the starboard point, based on relative wind direction.

    With the drone headed into the relative wind approximately 100 feet away from the deck, adjust airspeed as required to maintain drone position relative to the ship and turn the CRUISE-MANUV switch to MANUV.

LANDING

Use the maneuver stick and altitude knob to bring the drone over the deck at approximately 10 to 15 feet above the deck level. Drone heading may be adjusted as desired by twisting the maneuver stick. Control drone descent by means of the ALTITUDE knob. When the skids touch the deck, set the ALTITUDE readout at "10%" collective. Stop the engine as described below. Secure the drone to the deck with the tie down device or tiedowns on the landing gear.

The final descent should be made as smoothly and gradually as possible and touchdown should be made with the least possible shock.

STOPPING ENGINE

    When the drone rests solidly on the deck, run the engine at flight idle for 60 seconds (deck motion permitting), then initiate the engine shutdown sequence by moving the ENG OFF switch in the direction indicated by the arrow. Leave the switch in this position until the rotors have stopped turning. The following actions will occur in the order listed.

1.  Pitch and roll commands are removed by actuation of the carrier loss relay and the gyro signals are removed, causing the cyclic controls to be driven to neutral.

2.   The control lock solenoid is actuated and the cyclic controls are locked at neutral. 

3.   The fuel valve solenoid is actuated to shut off the fuel.

If the control locks do not engage fully, the fuel will not be shut off. In this event, move the ENG OFF switch in the direction opposite the arrow, manipulate the maneuver stick slightly in pitch and roll, then move the ENG OFF switch again in the direction indicated by the arrow.

If the control locks do not engage, do not leave the ENG OFF switch positioned in the direction indicated by the arrow for more than 5 seconds. Failure to observe this caution can result in damage to the control lock solenoid.

TRANSFER AND LANDING IN LOW VISIBILITY CONDITIONS

    Under conditions of low visibility or extensive sea return on the radar, the CIC controller may lose radar contact with the drone before the deck controller has acquired visual contact. Under such conditions, a dead reckoning plot of drone position must be maintained until the deck controller has acquired visual contact with the drone. A normal transfer of command from CIC to deck should be accomplished before the drone disappears from radar so that, when the deck controller sights the drone, an immediate landing can be made. The CIC controller must, via interphone instructions to the deck controller, direct the drone flight until the drone is in sight of the deck controller.

 Either of two methods for acquiring visual contact may be employed as follows:

Method 1. Before the drone disappears from radar, plot a course which will carry the drone, at 50 knots true airspeed, across the path of the ship, slightly astern. Set altitude command at 300 feet. The deck controller should watch and listen for the drone. If it passes the ship without being seen, wait until it reappears on the other side of the radar scope; then plot a new course and make another pass, this time at less than 40 knots true airspeed. When the deck controller makes visual contact, a normal landing can be made.

Do not make passes at less than 300 feet of commanded altitude unless it can be determined positively that the drone is aft of the ship.

Method 2. Before the drone disappears from radar, plot a collision course and compute the time of intercept. Set altitude command at 800 feet. When the drone comes into audible range of the deck controller, place the drone on the same heading and relative speed as the ship. If the drone still is not visible, the deck controller must fix the relative position of the drone by its sound. Maintaining an aural fix on the drone, the deck controller can position the drone aft of the ship. When it is definitely deter- mined that the drone is clear of the ship and can be landed safely, the deck controller can reduce altitude slowly until the drone is visible, then effect a normal landing. 

TRANSFER, SHIP TO SHIP OR SHORE TO SHIP

TRANSFER AT SEA LEVEL

The following procedures apply to transfer of control of the drone from one station to another in which the launching station is not higher than 100 feet above the elevation. of the landing station. If the launching station is more than 100 feet above the landing station, special prelaunch procedures, peculiar to the exact site, must be followed. (Refer to the paragraph headed TRANSFER, ALTITUDE TO SEA LEVEL.) If the landing station is at a higher elevation than the launching station (within the normal altitude command range of the system), no special prelaunch procedures need be observed.

The following instructions include two sets of transfer procedures as follows:

1. When the two stations are within visual range of each other.

2. When the two stations are out of sight of each other and radar plus dead reckoning techniques must be used.

In all transfers, voice communication by radio must be maintained.

During the transfer procedures set forth below, it is essential that both stations radiate at the same radio frequency and on the pro- per address setting. This synchronization of frequency and address selection between two stations in close proximity should be used only during deliberate transfers.

In the following instructions, the drone controller at the station from which the drone is to be launched is referred to as the "sending controller" and the drone controller at the station at which the drone is to be landed is referred to as the "receiving controller."

The procedures are set forth below: 

1. Transfer Within Visual Range

Transfers within visual range can be accomplished by the deck controllers without the need for tracking the drone on radar and transferring to CIC.

A. SENDING CONTROLLER: 

(1) Set the switches and controls on the control monitor as follows: 

   (a) MASTER switch- -OFF.
   (b) TRANSFER switch--DRONE. 
   (c) AUTO-PURGE-MANUAL switch--MANUAL.
   (d) GYRO switch--OUT. 
   (e) DRONE ANGLE REL TO SHIP pointer- -aligned with drone (pointer indicates engine air inlet).
   (f)  ELAPSED TIME INDICATOR--60.

(2) Set the switches on the transmitter control as follows:

   (a) HV switch--OFF.
   (b) CODER switch--EXTERNAL.
   (c) KEYED CARRIER - CONSTANT CARRIER switch--CONSTANT CARRIER.
   (d) ANT. SEL switch--as directed.
   (e) XMTR I - XMTR 2 switch--as directed.
   (f) PWR switch--ON. (Wait one minute, minimum.)
   (g) HV switch--ON.

(3) Set the switches and controls on the deck control as follows:

   (a) CRUISE-MANUV switch--CRUISE.
   (b) MEMORY-STATION switch--STATION.
   (c) WEAPONS JETTISON switch--off.
   (d) SPARES ON switches--off.
   (e) ENG OFF switch--on.
   (f) CABLE REL switch--off.
   (g) ADDRESS knob--at drone address.
   (h) PWR ON switch--on.
   (i) ALTITUDE knob--at 000 readout.
   (j) AIRSPEED knob--at 00 FWD readout.
   (k) HEADING pointer--aligned with drone.

B. RECEIVING CONTROLLER:

(1) Set the switches on the transmitter control as follows:

   (a) HV switch--OFF.
   (b) CODER switch--EXTERNAL.
   (c) KEYED CARRIER - CONSTANT CARRIER switch--CONSTANT CARRIER.
   (d) ANT. SEL switch--as directed.
   (e) XMTR I - XMTR 2 switch--as directed.
   (f) PWR switch--ON.

Make certain that the receiving station HV switch remains at OFF until the actual station-to-station transfer is to be made. The transfer is effected through this switch. Simultaneous transmission from both stations will induce loss of carrier or will cause spurious commands to be received by the drone.

(2) Set the switches and controls on the deck control as follows:

   (a) CRUISE-MANUV switch--CRUISE.
   (b) MEMORY-STATION switch--MEMORY.
   (c) WEAPONS JETTISON switch--off.
   (d) SPARES ON switches--off.
   (e) ENG OFF switch--on.
   (f) CABLE REL switch--off.
   (g) ADDRESS knob--at drone address.
   (h) PWR ON switch--on.
   (i) ALTITUDE knob--at 500 readout.
   (j) AIRSPEED knob--as required to produce 50 knots forward true airspeed.
   (k) HEADING pointer--aligned with intended flight path. 

C. SENDING CONTROLLER:

(1) Perform all the prelaunch operations as in a normal mission.

(2) Launch the drone, switch to the cruise mode, and climb out to 500 feet commanded, on a bearing toward the receiving station.

(3) Approaching the point of transfer, maintain altitude at 500 feet commanded and set airspeed command as required to produce 50 knots forward true airspeed. Make certain that the receiving station altitude, airspeed, and heading commands are synchronized with the sending station. Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to MEMORY, then turn the HV switch to OFF.

D. RECEIVING CONTROLLER:

(1) Turn the HV switch to ON.

(2) Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION.

(3) Follow normal mission procedures to effect the approach and landing at the receiving station.

The sending controller must stand by his station until the landing at the receiving station is completed. In the event of malfunction during the transfer operation, the switching procedure can be reversed and the sending controller can regain control of the drone.

2. Transfer, Out Of Sight

Transfers from one station to another beyond visual range require continuous radar surveillance and continuous dead reckoning plots, by both stations, of the position of the drone. The switching operations required to accomplish the actual transfer of control are the same as those for a transfer within visual range. CIC control, as in a normal drone mission, may be employed at the discretion of the operating activity.

The maximum distance between any two given transfer stations is determined by three factors as follows:

a.   The range of continuous radar return capability at the one station plus the range of continuous radar return capability at the other station.

b.   The maximum range of data link control, by the two stations combined, at the planned mission altitude.

c.   Drone range as a function of ambient atmospheric conditions, weight, and fuel load at launch.

To accomplish the transfer, proceed as follows:

a.  SENDING CONTROLLER:

(1) Set all switches and controls as in a transfer within visual range.

b.  RECEIVING CONTROLLER:

(1) Set all switches and controls as in a transfer within visual range.

c.  SENDING CONTROLLER:

(1) Perform all the prelaunch operations as in a normal mission.

(2) Launch the drone, switch to the cruise mode, and climb out to 500 feet commanded, on a bearing toward the receiving station.

(3) When the receiving station has made tentative identification of the drone on radar, command an azimuth pattern to confirm identification. Maintain altitude at 500 feet commanded and set airspeed command as required to produce 50 knots forward true airspeed. Make certain that the receiving station altitude, airspeed, and heading commands are synchronized with the sending station.

(4) Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to MEMORY, then turn the HV switch to OFF. Maintain surveillance by radar.

d. RECEIVING CONTROLLER

(1) Turn the HV switch to ON,

(2) Turn MEMORY-STATION switch to STATION

(3) Command an azimuth identification pattern to confirm that control has been acquired.

(4) Fly the drone toward the receiving station and follow normal mission procedures to effect the approach and landing.

TRANSFER, ALTITUDE TO SEA LEVEL

    In making a shore to ship transfer in which the sending station (shore based site) is more than 100 feet, but not more than 900 feet above sea level, the barometric altitude control must be synchronized (zeroed) at an artificially induced static pressure prior to launch. (Refer to the paragraph headed ALTITUDE COMMAND RANGE in "Operating Limitations" section.) This operation requires the use of the Altitude Controller Test Set VPT-10G. The procedure is described below.

It is essential that the procedure be followed immediately before the transfer is to take place to minimize the effect of ambient pressure changes following the synchronization. If it becomes necessary to stop the engine or to turn the TRANSFER switch on the control monitor to AUX, the synchronizing procedure described below must be repeated.

Transfer to sea level from elevation greater than 750 feet must be accomplished without weapons.

To synchronize the barometric altitude control and accomplish the transfer, proceed as follows

1. Set all switches and controls as in a ship to ship transfer.

2. Position the test set near the right-hand landing gear skid and connect it to a suitable source of electrical power. Open the STATIC EQUALIZER valve fully. Set the static altitude controller at approximately the station elevation. Turn the test set on and allow it to warm up for 15 minutes, minimum.

3. Exercise the test set altimeter as follows:

a. Close the STATIC EQUALIZER valve.

b. Using the altitude controller knob, cycle the altimeter from - 1000 to + 10, 000 feet 2 or 3 times. Leave it set at +10,000 feet.

4. Leak test the test set as follows:

a. Hold the STATIC LEAK TEST button depressed lightly but firmly.

b. Observe the altimeter for any decrease in indicated altitude. If the leak rate is greater than 100 feet per minute, determine the cause and correct it.

c. Release the STATIC LEAK TEST button.

d. Set the altitude controller at the station elevation. e. Open the STATIC EQUALIZER valve.

5. Disconnect the drone static line at the barometric altitude control static port. Connect the altitude controller test set hose to the barometric altitude control static port and connect the quick release coupling to the tester. Close the STATIC EQUALIZER valve. 

6. Leak test the system as follows:

   a. Using the altitude controller knob, set the altimeter reading at +10,000 feet. 
   b. Hold the STATIC LEAK TEST button depressed lightly but firmly.
   c. Observe the altimeter for any decrease in indicated altitude. If the leak rate is greater than 200 feet per minute, determine the cause and correct it. 
   d. Release the STATIC LEAK TEST button.
   e. Set the altitude controller at the station elevation. 
   f. Open the STATIC EQUALIZER valve.

7. Set the pointer on the test set altimeter to station elevation plus or minus the altimeter correction on the calibration card. Close the STATIC EQUALIZER valve.

8. Start the drone engine using normal procedures. 

Do not turn the TRANSFER switch on the control monitor to DRONE; leave it at AUX.

The technician must remain crouched as low as possible while under the rotors. 

9. Using the altitude controller, set the test set altimeter as follows: 

Make certain that step 9 is performed with the control monitor TRANSFER switch at AUX.

10. Make certain that the ALT SYNC meter pointer is in the green area, then turn the TRANSFER switch to DRONE.

Make certain that the TRANSFER switch remains in the DRONE position as long as the umbilical cables remain connected. If the switch is turned to AUX, even momentarily, the altitude reference applied in step 9 will be removed.

11. Return the test set altitude controller to station elevation. Open the STATIC EQUALIZER valve. Turn the test set off and remove and stow the test set hose.

12. Reconnect the drone static line to the barometric altitude control. Make certain that the line is tight, but do not over tighten the fitting.

13. Clear the launching area. Make certain that the prelaunch tie down device is secure.

Do not displace the ALTITUDE RATE switch until ready to launch the drone. Upward movement of this switch releases the tie down device

14. Readjust the ALTITUDE knob as required until the COLLECTIVE FOLLOW UP POSITION meter indicates 10. The ALTITUDE readout indication should be as follows:

 15. If the altitude readout indication obtained in step 14 is not proper, stop the engine using ENG OFF switch on the deck control (C-3314/SRW-4C). Repeat steps 5 through 14.

DO NOT use the STOP switch on the control monitor after TRANSFER switch has been turned to DRONE!

16.  If the altitude readout indication obtained in step 14 is proper, perform the prelaunch command tests, in both cruise and maneuver modes, in accordance with steps 1 through 20 of figure 3, except that in step 14 of figure 3, the altitude commanded should be that noted in step 14 above plus 50 feet, to obtain a follow-up reading of 20 ± 10%.

17. On completion of the prelaunch command tests, turn the CRUISE-MANUV switch to MANUV, turn the GYRO switch to IN, and release the umbilical cables and tiedown device.

18. Using the ALTITUDE knob, increase altitude and hover the drone approximately 20 feet over the launching spot for approximately one minute.

19. Head the drone in the direction of the receiving station and effect the transfer as in a normal sea level transfer. 

At the point of transfer, both the sending and receiving stations must have the drone in visual or continuous radar contact.

    After the drone has landed at the receiving station and the engine stopped, it is not necessary to remove the artificial reference from the barometric altitude control. The next time power is applied through the umbilical cable, the control automatically resynchronizes to its existing station elevation. 

SHUTTING DOWN

To turn off the shipboard components, proceed as follows:

1. Turn control monitor MASTER switch to OFF.

2. Turn CIC control and deck control PWR switches off.

3. Turn CIC transmitter control and deck transmitter control PWR and HV switches off.

End of Normal Procedures Section

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