infrared detecting set, AN/AAS-24

The I R detecting set is a completely passive system which senses IR radiation from ob- jects on the ground and from the terrain. The levels of radiated I R vary from object to object. These differences are detected and recorded on film to present near-photographic quality imagery. The same in- formation is presented in the cockpit in real-time television- type display.

CHARACTERISTICS:

Minimum/ maximum altitudes: Classified.

Scan: Vertically below and to each side of aircraft.

Scan angle: Classified

Length of film: 350 feet.

Number of exposures per roll: One continuous exposure.

Cockpit display: Television-type display of the same information recorded on film.

Resolution: Classified

TASKS: M Small area, point, and route reconnaissance. m RAP/ OPSEC support missions. Damage assessment missions. Detection of camouflaged targets. Flank security missions.

ADVANTAGES: System is completely passive and cannot be jammed. May detect hot or cold targets. Can be used day or night. Requires no illumination for night operations. Inflight readout permits immediate dissemination of critical information directly to users.

DISADVANTAGES: Dense vegetation and heavy precipitation hinder performance.  Aircraft must pass directly over target. System has no data transmission capability.