Abstract:
The present invention relates to combat simulations and, in particular, the invention concerns a combat simulation system and method to be used with models of weapon platforms controlled and navigated by a remote control to simulate a pre firing signal and a firing signal created by releasing electromagnetic radiation towards a target, thereafter registering the “hits” and transmitting the designated signal to a second location. The present invention provides for an effective combat simulation system to be used on weapon platform models, which simulates firing, target “hits” and registering the firing and the hits and which simulates target illumination and facilitates and illuminated target to “fire” upon the illuminator, either with simulated fire or real fire with real weapon systems and which mimics a variety of weapon systems by emitting the same type of illumination with the same characteristics that the weapon system actually emits and that the system will be suitably mounted on a remote controlled platform whether air-born, sea-born or land. Thus, the target can detect and employ the target defense systems including employing counter measures, performing evasive maneuvers, creating smoke screens and real fire resulting in the incapacitation and destruction of the illuminating platform.

Description:
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    The present invention relates to combat simulations and, in particular, the invention concerns a combat simulation system and method to be used with models of weapon platforms controlled and navigated by a remote control to simulate a pre firing signal and a firing signal created by releasing electromagnetic radiation towards a target, thereafter registering the “hits” and transmitting the designated signal to a second location.  
           [0002]    Since the invention of weapons, a simple and efficient way to simulate combat was sought. For many years individuals used models of weapon systems to simulate various combat scenarios. The various models and devices included, among others, scaled model tanks and scaled artillery models utilizing a single shot 0.22-inch gun to simulate tank and artillery fire. Alternatively, models equipped with a firearm have been used for simulating purposes both with and without shot. There is an obvious hazard in using such models as they may cause the injury or even the death of a user. Other combat simulation models include remote controlled model aircraft for performing acrobatic maneuvers or for using aircraft models to simulate air to air combat and for simulating attacking targets on the ground as well as pleasurable pastime activities according to the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 5,892,221 “Combat simulation method and system utilizing lasers with wireless activation” to Lev.  
           [0003]    In the present and future battlefield, several different weapon systems are employed while using guidance and aiming accessories. Electro-optic systems emit electromagnetic radiation including, but not limited to, coherent electromagnetic radiation.  
           [0004]    By way of example only, coherent electromagnetic radiation is used in range finders, which are used to measure distances between the laser source and a target with a high degree of accuracy. The principles and operation of a range finder are based on a short pulse being emitted, travels at the speed of light, in a narrow collimated beam until the target. The radiation returned from the target is scattered and the rangefinder detectors detect only part of the radiation. The time between radiation being emitted and detected enables an exact distance to be calculated.  
           [0005]    Furthermore, designators are used to manually “mark” targets for accurate targeting. The principles and operation of designators are based on a laser source with of a narrowing column and a relatively high rate of pulsation. Thus, a typical radiation “signature” is produced on the target and is reflected in all directions. The radiation returned is then used for guiding bombs and missiles towards the target.  
           [0006]    Another weapon system is a Laser guided missile. In the missile a laser source illuminates a target and the missile is guided by the laser radiation reflected from the target until impacting the target.  
           [0007]    For the purpose of clarity, listed hereinbelow are sample characteristics of each radiation source commonly found in modern battlefields.  
                                                                                     Wavelength   Pulse   Frequency           Type of Source   (Microns)   (nSec)   Hz                                        Range Finder   1.06    5-30   1/1.5           Range Finder   0.69   30-40   1/1.5           Designator   1.06   15-40   2-20           Guided Missile   0.905   200   2,000                      
 
           [0008]    Each one of the weapon systems has many specific characteristics of the radiation source and the specific characteristics are often manifested in wavelength, pulse, energy and frequency.  
           [0009]    Due to these characteristics being known, early warning systems can be created to warn as to the direction of the source and against risks related to any of the above systems. Furthermore, by knowing the type and location of weapon system, counter measures and electronic counter measures (ECM) can be employed against these systems.  
           [0010]    In other weapon systems, radar is used for guidance to the target and delivery of the payload.  
           [0011]    The radar systems can be identified by several characteristics including but not limited to frequency bands as listed hereinbelow:  
                                                                             Frequency   Wavelength           Symbol   (GHz)   (Cm)                                        L   1-2   30-15           S   2-4    15-7.5           C   4-8    7.5-3.75           X    8-12   3.75-2.5            Ku   12-18   2.5-1.6           K   18-27   1.6-1.1           Ka   27-40    1.1-0.75           MM (3)    40-100   0.75-0.3                       
 
           [0012]    Here as well, due to specific characteristics of each weapon being known, warning systems against each type of system can be created to warn as to the direction of the source and against risks related to any of the above systems. Furthermore, by knowing the type and location of weapon system, counter measures and electronic counter measures (ECM) can be employed against these systems.  
           [0013]    Further combat simulations have been attempted by individuals, which recreate combined ground, air and naval forces simulating ground, air to ground, air to sea, or sea battles either separately or conjunctively, while using scaled models of the soldiers, weapons and platforms on which model weapon systems were used. Again, the attempts of recreating or simulating ground or sea battles also suffer from the deficiency of the attempts described.  
           [0014]    Most methods for dealing with a laser threat include some active countermeasures, evasive maneuvers, or direct engagement. Generally, combat units will use laser threat-management methods in a variety of combinations. However, all of these alternatives presume that, in most situations, the hostile laser has been detected, identified, and exactly localized within the extremely short span of time available. Crews in fighting vehicles, tanks, armored trucks, infantry soldiers, and others can be instantaneously warned of specific laser threats to maintain/enhance their survivability. However, simulating an attack by a plurality of weapon systems using illumination for target acquisition is not facilitated by existing systems. Moreover, all existing systems do not facilitate retaliatory measures including simulated fire and live fire upon the simulated illuminating weapon.  
           [0015]    The military presently uses a laser detection system for battlefield simulation training. One such system is referred to as the Modular Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) developed by the Naval Training Equipment Center working in conjunction with military contractors. The MILES system equips soldiers with pulsed semiconductor lasers and sensors. The lasers may be attached to a variety of weapons, each firing a characteristic sequence of pulses. When the war games start, the soldiers fire laser pulses at each other, and the sensors keep score. However, such systems do not provide military personnel with advance warning of the laser threat and are not battlefield effective. Furthermore, systems for simulating live fire, such as the MILES system and other systems are incapable of simulating a wide range of weapon systems utilizing illumination, including weapons like Laser Guided Missiles and the like. Further still, systems like the MILES system do not facilitate live fire on an illuminator for obvious reasons.  
           [0016]    Several US companies have developed the MILES system for the US Army. Among which, Lockheed® and Cubic® are the most dominant.  
           [0017]    The principle used in the MILES and similar systems is to equip any weapon system with a encoded laser source whereby each weapon type is given a special code to identify the type of weapon irrespectively of whether the weapon system has any illumination source whatsoever like for example rifles handguns and the like.  
           [0018]    For he purpose of standardization of systems the Department of the Army simulation, training and instrumentation command issued a publication including the standard codes for each weapon system entitled “Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure”. The latest edition for printed is entitled “MCC97 STANDARD”.  
           [0019]    All laser sources used in the MILES system use the same frequency and pulse on which the code is carried. A partial list of weapon systems and codes is listed hereinbelow.  
                                                                                                                                                             BASIC MILES CODE STRUCTURE                BASIC           DATA BITS   MILES            D   D   D   D   D   D   D   D   D   D   D   CODE           0   1   2   3   4   5   6   7   8   9   10   NO.   WEAPON/FUNCTION                    1   1   0   0   0   1   0   1   1   0   1   00   UNIV. KILL, CONTR, GUN, 100%   KILL       1   1   0   1   0   0   1   0   0   1   1   01   MAVERICK   HIT       1   1   0   0   0   1   1   0   1   0   1   02   HELLFIRE   HIT       1   1   0   0   0   1   0   1   0   1   1   03   AT-3 SAGGER (NTC BMP)   HIT       1   1   0   0   1   0   1   0   0   1   1   04   60 MM, 81 MM, 4.2 INCH   HIT       1   1   0   1   0   1   0   1   0   0   1   05   M15 MINE (TRACK CUTTER)   HIT       1   1   0   0   1   1   0   0   1   0   1   06   WEAPON “X”   HIT       1   1   0   1   1   0   1   1   0   0   0   07   TOW, SHILLELACH, AT-6 (NTC HIND-D   HIT       1   1   0   1   0   1   1   0   1   0   0   08   DRAGON, SPANDREL (NTC BRDM-2)   HIT       1   1   0   1   1   0   0   1   0   0   1   09   FIRE &amp; FORGET MISSILES (JAVELIN)       1   1   0   0   1   1   0   1   0   0   1   10   M21 ANTITANK, 125 MM (NTC T72)   HIT       1   1   0   0   1   0   0   1   0   1   1   11   CLAYMORE M81A1 AND M16   HIT                  
 
           [0020]    Alternatively the target can retaliate by firing upon the source of illumination by way of a laser simulating live fire.  
           [0021]    Using cheap air-born platforms saves maintenance times and costs which would have been needed for the simulation. Furthermore, real fire exercises cannot be performed against manned weapon systems.  
           [0022]    Several additional combat systems have been developed to address laser illumination related threats. Namely, detecting an illumination by laser and detecting the direction the illumination came from, for the purpose of firing upon the laser illuminator.  
           [0023]    All such combat systems are devoid of a simulation capability facilitating a simulated attacker to illuminate a target in a manner similar to existing combat weapon systems and such that a target illuminated will be able to “fire” upon the illuminator, either with simulated fire or live fire with the combat weapon systems firing live ammunition. Namely, all such systems cannot facilitate simulated attacks, which simulate a wide variety of illuminating weapon systems while incorporating live fire on the illuminator.  
           [0024]    There is therefore a need for an effective combat simulation system to be used on weapon platform models, which simulates firing, target “hits” and registering the firing and the hits.  
           [0025]    There is a further need for an effective combat simulation system, which simulates target illumination and facilitates an illuminated target to “fire” upon the illuminator, either with simulated fire or real fire with real weapon systems.  
           [0026]    There is yet a further need to create a system which mimics a variety of weapon systems by emitting the same type of illumination with the same characteristics that the weapon system actually emits and that the system will be suitably mounted on a remote controlled platform whether air-born, sea-born or land. Thus, the target can detect and employ the target defense systems including employing counter measures, performing evasive maneuvers, creating smoke screens and real fire resulting in the incapacitation and destruction of the illuminating platform.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0027]    The present invention is a combat simulation system and method, which can be used with a model of a weapon platform for simulating firing upon real targets as well as target “hits”, and for registering the firing and the hits.  
           [0028]    Hereinafter the term “UAV” refers to any unmanned aerial vehicle including, but not limited to: UAV&#39;s, VTOL&#39;s and drones.  
           [0029]    In the case of remote controlled models used in such simulations, the users control the models from the remote location and are usually limited to the range of the transmitters in the remote controls.  
           [0030]    A typical combat simulation of models will take place in the air space immediately above the heads of the users and may include several models attempting to maneuver to a firing position in relation to the other models.  
           [0031]    A ship combat simulation will typically take place in the sea, a pool or a pond, using manned and unmanned remote controlled sea vessels.  
           [0032]    The simulation will often be a re-creation of a famous battle or a conventional combat simulation.  
           [0033]    The users will often attempt to maneuver their ships to a firing position permitting broadside hits.  
           [0034]    Hereinafter, the term “wireless device” refers to any device, which is capable of transmitting a signal to a receiver, which is not in direct physical proximity to the wireless device as well as any device, which is not attached to a controlling apparatus with an electrically conductive wire.  
           [0035]    Hereinafter, the term “illumination” refers to any radiation originating from a predator platform, which simulates any “active” weapon or guidance system including, but not limited to: firing a weapon upon a target, releasing coherent electromagnetic radiation and microwave energy used to guide weapon systems to a target and radar radiation used by aircraft and missiles for “locking on” and guiding weapon systems to a target.  
           [0036]    Hereinafter, the term “real target” refers to any target including a laser detection system or “illumination” detection system, which provides detection coverage capabilities to identify the region of origination of the laser or illumination or, identification of potential direct or indirect laser or illumination energy and automatically alerts the target or the target occupiers to the detected laser or illumination and the direction of laser or illumination origination. Furthermore, the detection and relevant parameters can be relayed to a remote station for analysis and battlefield assessment.  
           [0037]    According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided, a combat simulation system including: (a) a predator including: (i) an illumination source; and (ii) a receiver electronically attached to the illumination source and responsive to signals transmitted from a remote control; and (b) a target including: (i) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the illumination source; and (ii) a weapon system responsive attached to the target illumination detector and capable of neutralizing any threat from the predator.  
           [0038]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the predator can simulate any illumination of any weapon system.  
           [0039]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the target weapon system can simulate any simulated defensive measures against the predator.  
           [0040]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source includes a radar source.  
           [0041]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source further includes a laser.  
           [0042]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the laser source includes a laser modulator.  
           [0043]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the target includes a warning system for warning on any illumination detected by the target detector.  
           [0044]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source includes a radar source and a laser.  
           [0045]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the target includes a warning system for warning on any threats posed by any system detected.  
           [0046]    According to the teachings of further embodiments of the present invention there is provided a combat simulation system including: (a) a predator capable of simulating any illumination of any weapon system including: (i) an illumination source mounted on a modular platform and including a radar source and a laser source; and (ii) a receiver electronically attached to the illumination source and responsive to signals transmitted from a wireless remote control device; and (b) a target including: (i) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the illumination source; (ii) a warning system for warning on any illumination detected by the target detector; and (ii) a weapon system responsive to the target illumination detector.  
           [0047]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the modular platform is readily transferable from the predator to any other predator platform.  
           [0048]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source is independently alignable towards the target, irrespective of the alignment of the target in relation to the predator.  
           [0049]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source includes a tunable laser.  
           [0050]    According to the teachings of further embodiments of the present invention there is provided a combat simulation system including: (a) a predator capable of simulating any illumination of any weapon system including: (i) an illumination source; (ii) a processor for controlling the predator according to simulation framework or the predetermined flight envelope or mission priorities in which combat takes place; and (b) a target including: (i) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the illumination source; and (ii) a weapon system responsive to the target illumination detector and capable of neutralizing any threat from the predator or performing any real or simulated defensive measures against the predator.  
           [0051]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the predator and the illumination are autonomously controlled and operated.  
           [0052]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the predator further includes a predator illumination detector and predator processor for detecting and processing reflected illumination from the target or illumination by the weapon system.  
           [0053]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the predator is capable of performing any defensive or offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities determined by the predator processor.  
           [0054]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the target retaliates automatically to any illumination detected by the target detector.  
           [0055]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the target includes a database of all illuminations detected by the target detector and all defensive or retaliatory measures taken against the illumination source.  
           [0056]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source includes a radar source.  
           [0057]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the radar source includes a variable frequency generator.  
           [0058]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source further includes a laser.  
           [0059]    According to still further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the laser source includes a laser modulator.  
           [0060]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the illumination source is a pulsed semiconductor laser.  
           [0061]    According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to the Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure  
           [0062]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to any weapon simulation system coding structure.  
           [0063]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to any integrated multiple weapon simulation system.  
           [0064]    According to the teachings of still further embodiments of the present invention there is provided a combat simulation system including any of the features or components depicted in the specification of the application or in FIGS. 1-3.  
           [0065]    According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided a combat simulation method including any system with any features or components depicted in the specification of the application or in FIGS. 1-3.  
           [0066]    According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided a method for depleting target counter measures including: (a) a combat simulation system including: (i) a predator capable of simulating any illumination of any weapon system including: (1) an illumination source mounted on a modular platform and including a radar source and a laser source; and (2) a receiver electronically attached to the illumination source and responsive to signals transmitted from a remote control; and (ii) a target including: (1) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the illumination source; (2) a warning system for warning on any illumination detected by the target detector; and (3) a weapon system responsive to the target illumination detector and capable of neutralizing any threat from the predator or performing any real or simulated defensive measures against the predator; and (b) illuminating the target with an illumination of a weapon system originating from the illumination source, such that the target will exploit target defensive counter-measures.  
           [0067]    According to further embodiments of the method for depleting target counter measures according to the present invention the illumination source includes a tunable laser.  
           [0068]    According to further embodiments of the method for depleting target counter measures according to the present invention the radar source includes a variable frequency generator. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0069]    The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:  
         [0070]    [0070]FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the components making up the system according to the present invention and mounted on a model aircraft and a target tank;  
         [0071]    [0071]FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the system mounted on model aircraft and for simulating an attack against a tank; and  
         [0072]    [0072]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of preferred components of the system of the present invention. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0073]    The present invention is a combat simulation system and method, which can be used with a model of a weapon platform for simulating firing upon real targets as well as target “hits”, and for registering the firing and the hits.  
         [0074]    The principles and operation of a combat simulation system according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.  
         [0075]    Typically, aircraft combat simulations are held between two or more aircraft in a pre-defined air envelope, which defines minimum and maximum altitudes as well as areas and altitudes where engagement is permitted.  
         [0076]    Every user or pilot then maneuvers their aircraft to a starting point where the combat commences and each user or pilot starts maneuvering their aircraft until another aircraft is within the line of sight where the user or pilot will activate their weapon system, scoring a “kill”.  
         [0077]    Typically, most users or pilots will try to execute sharp angles of attack, which make it harder for a prospective target to successfully perform evasive maneuvers and tactics.  
         [0078]    Obviously, with real aircraft, live fire is not an option available due to risk of injury or death to the participants.  
         [0079]    Live fire simulations can only be performed with the real aircraft performing offensive maneuvers as a predator and against an unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV&#39;s), vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOL&#39;s) and drones.  
         [0080]    Hereinafter the term “UAV” refers to any unmanned aerial vehicle including, but not limited to: UAV&#39;s, VTOL&#39;s and drones.  
         [0081]    In the case of remote controlled models used in such simulations, the users control the models from the remote location and are usually limited to the range of the transmitters in the remote controls.  
         [0082]    A typical combat simulation of models will take place in the air space immediately above the heads of the users and may include several models attempting to maneuver to a firing position in relation to the other models.  
         [0083]    A ship combat simulation will typically take place in the sea, a pool or a pond, using manned and unmanned remote controlled sea vessels.  
         [0084]    The simulation will often be a re-creation of a famous battle or a conventional combat simulation.  
         [0085]    The users will often attempt to maneuver their ships to a firing position permitting broadside hits.  
         [0086]    Hits between the bow and the beam are especially favored, as they probably would have resulted in the target ship sinking if real shells had been fired.  
         [0087]    Hereinafter, the term “wireless device” refers to any device, which is capable of transmitting a signal to a receiver, which is not in direct physical proximity to the wireless device as well as any device, which is not attached to a controlling apparatus with an electrically conductive wire.  
         [0088]    Hereinafter, the term. “illumination” refers to any radiation originating from a predator platform, which simulates any “active” weapon or guidance system including, but not limited to: firing a weapon upon a target, releasing coherent electromagnetic radiation and microwave energy used to guide weapon systems to a target and radar radiation used by aircraft and missiles for “locking on” and guiding weapon systems to a target.  
         [0089]    Hereinafter, the term “real target” refers to any target including a laser detection system or “illumination” detection system, which provides detection coverage capabilities to identify the region of origination of the laser or illumination or, identification of potential direct or indirect laser or illumination energy and automatically alerts the target or the target occupiers to the detected laser or illumination and the direction of laser or illumination origination. Furthermore, the detection and relevant parameters can be relayed to a remote station for analysis and battlefield assessment.  
         [0090]    Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates the basic components of a system according to the present invention, wherein a first remote control  10 , operated by a user, activates a first illumination source  12 . After the user has maneuvered a modular platform  13 , on which first illumination source  12  is mounted, into a firing position.  
         [0091]    As shown, first remote control  10  sends a signal along a path, generally indicated as “χ”, to first illumination source  12 . The illuminating radiation, emitted by first illumination source  12 , travels along a path generally indicated as “α”, and contacts a target  14 , which can be substantially illuminated by first illumination source  12 . A target illumination detector  16 , situated on target  14  and responsive to illumination from first illumination source  12 , picks up illumination radiation illuminating target  14 .  
         [0092]    Preferably, first radiation source  12  is suitably mounted on a predator platform  18 . Preferably, illumination source  12  includes a laser  20 . Laser sources sufficiently small and lightweight to be mounted on small model aircraft are well known in the art. Laser sources of such dimensions have been disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,179,235 and 5,435,091 granted to Tolle and U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,226 granted to Houde-Walter, to name but a few.  
         [0093]    Preferably, laser  20  is a pulsed semiconductor laser  20 .  
         [0094]    More preferably, pulsed semiconductor laser  20  is operated according to the Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure.  
         [0095]    Preferably, modular platform  13  can be transferred in situ from one predator  18  to another predator  18  for ready replacement, maintenance and the like.  
         [0096]    Preferably, predator platform  18  includes a source of radar radiation  22  for creating radar radiation and simulating radars of aircraft, weapon systems and missiles.  
         [0097]    More preferably, radar radiation source  22  is within the L (Lima), C (Charlie), X and Ku frequencies commonly used in military radars.  
         [0098]    More preferably, radar radiation source  22  further simulates other characteristics of common radars like type of scan and Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF).  
         [0099]    Preferably, predator platform  18  farther includes a predator processor  23  to activate and deactivate first illumination source  12  according to the simulation framework and the predetermined flight envelope in which combat commences and takes place.  
         [0100]    Preferably, predator  18  is capable of performing any defensive or offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities determined by predator processor  23 .  
         [0101]    Preferably, the system is mounted on weapon platforms as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. Typically, the system will be mounted on model aircraft. First radiation source  12  is mounted on predator model  18 . Predator model  18  is maneuvered by the user such that target  14  is within the line of sight of first radiation source  12 . Target illumination detector  16  is suitably mounted on target  14  to illumination from predator  18 . Target detector  16  is also connected to a weapon system  24  mounted on target  14 .  
         [0102]    Preferably, weapon system  24  is either the integral weapon system of target  14  or a dedicated weapon system capable of damaging and destroying predator  18 . Preferably, after target detector  16  detects illumination, target detector  16  transmits a signal to weapon system  24  where a firing solution upon predator  18  is processed on a weapon system processor  26 .  
         [0103]    Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system  24 , simulated fire is performed on predator  18 , utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator  18  until predator  18  is neutralized. Namely, predator  18  is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated “threat” to target  14 .  
         [0104]    Preferably, remote control  10  includes a remote control transceiver  28  for sending signals from remote control  10  by sending a signal along the path, generally indicated as “χ”, from transceiver  28  to predator  18 .  
         [0105]    Preferably, target  14  features a plurality of target illumination detectors  16 .  
         [0106]    Typically, target  14  features a target indicator  30  indicating when target detectors  16  detect illumination.  
         [0107]    Alternatively, target indicator  30  features a display  32  for displaying the number of times in which target detectors  16  detects an illumination.  
         [0108]    Optionally, a predator illumination detector  34  is suitably mounted to receive reflected radiation from target  14  along path “B”. Predator illumination detector  34  is also connected to a transmitter  36  mounted on predator  18 . Predator transmitter  36  transmits a signal to remote control  10 , after illumination “fired” by illumination source  12  at target  14  is reflected from target  14  and returns to predator  18 , where predator detector  34  detects illumination.  
         [0109]    Due to the fact that predator  18  is capable of illuminating target  14  with a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality of weapon systems and weapon guidance systems, and the fact that predator  18  is unmanned, live fire retaliatory procedures are facilitated against predator  18  without risking injury or death of the user controlling predator  18 .  
         [0110]    Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a model predator  18  facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire run in a single session.  
         [0111]    Further still, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a model predator  18  facilitates damaging or destroying predator  18  while incurring significantly reduced costs by using a model predator UAV  18 .  
         [0112]    Preferably, first illumination source  12  is mounted on predator model  18  such that target  14  is within the line of sight of predator  18  and first illumination source  12 . Radiation detector  34  is suitably mounted to receive reflected illumination from target  14  along path “β”. Predator transmitter  36  transmits a signal to remote control transceiver  28 , after illumination radiation is “fired” by illumination source  12  at target  14 , contacting target  14  and returned to predator detector  34 , where it is duly detected by predator detector  34 .  
         [0113]    Preferably, target  14  also features target detectors  16  connected to a detection processor  38 , which processes the signal from detectors  16  and converts them to an amplified digital signal for identification of weapon system and threat.  
         [0114]    Preferably, processor  38  determines which sensor  16  detects the strongest illumination level and generates a directional vector to illumination source  12  for displaying on display  32 , such that in accordance with the settings of weapon system  24 , target  14  can commence simulated fire on predator  18 , utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus.  
         [0115]    Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator  18  until predator  18  is neutralized. Namely, predator  18  is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated “threat” to target  14 .  
         [0116]    Preferably, display  32  provides real-time display for positioning laser  20  and radar source  22 , thereby warning the operators of weapon system  24  of the existence, the type, the characteristics and the direction of the detected laser  20  and radar source  22 . Locating of laser  20  is performed according to which detector  16  detects the strongest illumination level and the variance between illumination levels detected by detectors  16 , as well as the margin between illumination detection by detectors  16 .  
         [0117]    Furthermore, the wavelength, coding and modulation of the illumination detected by detectors  16  are displayed on display  32 .  
         [0118]    Alternatively, display  32  displays the predetermined coding of the simulated weapon system and the type of weapon system.  
         [0119]    Preferably, display  32  displays the type of laser  20  and radar source  22 . By way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display  32  as a range finder used by the armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern radars detected by detectors  16  will be displayed either as fire control radars or as a missile, depending on the frequency, wavelength and PRF detected. A pulse laser having a frequency between 2-20 Hz, will be displayed on display  32  as a laser target designator.  
         [0120]    Alternatively, indicator  30  includes a score board  40  for scoring the number of times target detectors  16  detected illumination as well as the history of illumination types, characteristics, the method in which the “threat” was addressed and the success rates of the tactics used against laser  20  and radar source  22 .  
         [0121]    Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform capable of using a weapon system as well as any weapon system.  
         [0122]    [0122]FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the system according to the present invention, wherein a first remote control  10 , operated by a user, activates a first illumination source  12 .  
         [0123]    After the user has maneuvered a modular platform  13 , on which first illumination source  12  is mounted, into a firing position. First remote control  10  sends a signal along a path, generally indicated as “χ”, to first illumination source  12 . The illuminating radiation, emitted by first illumination source  12 , travels along a path generally indicated as “α”, and contacts a target  14 , which can be substantially illuminated by first illumination source  12 .  
         [0124]    Like above, a target illumination detector  16 , situated on target  14  and responsive to illumination from first illumination source  12 , picks up illumination radiation illuminating target  14 .  
         [0125]    Here as well, first radiation source  12  is preferably mounted on a modular platform  13 . Preferably, illumination source  12  includes a laser  20 .  
         [0126]    Preferably, laser  20  is a pulsed semiconductor laser  20 .  
         [0127]    More preferably, pulsed semiconductor laser  20  is operated according to the Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure or similar weapon simulation systems.  
         [0128]    Preferably, first illumination source  12  includes a source of radar radiation source  22  for creating radar radiation and simulating radars of aircraft, weapon systems and missiles.  
         [0129]    Preferably, illumination source  12  includes a predator processor  23  to activate and deactivate first illumination source  12  according to the simulation framework and the predetermined flight envelope in which combat commences and takes place. Furthermore, illumination source  12  preferably also includes radar radiation source  22 , laser  20  and predator processor  23  as well as modular platform  13  being readily transferable from one predator  18  to any other predator  18 .  
         [0130]    Preferably, predator  18  is capable of performing any defensive or offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities determined by predator processor  23 .  
         [0131]    Preferably, illumination source  12  can be independently aligned towards target  14 , irrespective of the alignment of target  14  in relation to predator  18 .  
         [0132]    More preferably, radar radiation  22  is within the L (Lima), C (Charlie), X and Ku frequencies commonly used in military radars.  
         [0133]    More preferably, radar radiation  22  further simulates other characteristics of common; radars like type of scan, PRF and any other characteristics.  
         [0134]    Typically, the system of the present invention will be mounted on a model aircraft. First illumination source  12  is mounted on modular platform  13 . Modular platform  13  is maneuvered and displaced by the user such that target  14  is within the line of sight of first illumination source  12 , irrespective of the alignment between predator  18  and target  14 . Target illumination detector  16  is suitably mounted on target  14  to illumination from predator  18 . Target detector  16  is also connected to a weapon system  24  mounted on target  14 .  
         [0135]    Preferably, weapon system  24  is either the integral weapon system of target  14  or a dedicated weapon system capable of damaging and destroying predator  18 . Preferably, after target detector  16  detects illumination, target detector  16  transmits a signal to weapon system  24  where a firing solution upon predator  18  is processed on a weapon system processor  26 .  
         [0136]    Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system  24 , simulated fire is performed on predator  18 , utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator  18  until predator  18  is neutralized. Namely, predator  18  is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated “threat” to target  14 .  
         [0137]    Preferably, remote control  10  includes a remote control transceiver  28  for sending signals to first illumination source  12  by sending a signal along the path, generally indicated as “χ”, to first illumination source  12 .  
         [0138]    More preferably, remote control  10  includes a first laser-activating switch  42  for predator  18  to illuminate target  14  with radiation of a first type of laser system. Furthermore, remote control  10  preferably includes a second laser-activating switch  44  for predator  18  to illuminate target  14  with radiation of a second type of laser system. Thus, the user, which controls predator  18  with remote control  10 , can readily select the type of illumination desired for any simulation.  
         [0139]    Preferably, remote control  10  also includes a first radar radiation-activating switch  46  for predator  18  to illuminate target  14  with a radiation of a first type of radar system. Furthermore, remote control  10  also includes a second radar radiation-activating switch  48  for predator  18  to illuminate target  14  with a radiation of a second type of radar system.  
         [0140]    Preferably, target  14  features a plurality of target illumination detectors  16 .  
         [0141]    Preferably target  14  is in communication with a remote station  50 , for reporting and analyzing any illumination detected by detectors  16 . Typically, remote station  50  features a receiver  52  and a target indicator  54  indicating when target detectors  16  detect illumination.  
         [0142]    Alternatively, target indicator  54  features a display  56  for displaying the number of times in which target detectors  16  detects an illumination and type and characteristics of the illumination detected by detectors  16 .  
         [0143]    Due to the fact that predator  18  has the capability of illuminating target  14  with a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality of weapon systems and weapon guidance systems, and the fact that predator  18  is an unmanned, live fire retaliatory procedures are facilitated against predator  18  without risking injury or death of the user controlling predator  18 .  
         [0144]    Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a model predator  18  facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire run in a single session.  
         [0145]    Further still, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a model predator  18  facilitates damaging or destroying predator  18  while significantly reducing costs by using a model predator UAV  18 .  
         [0146]    Preferably, first illumination source  12  is mounted on predator model  18  such that target  14  is within the line of sight of modular platform  13  and first illumination source  12 . Radiation detector  34  is suitably mounted on predator  18  for receiving reflected illumination from target  14  along path “β”. Predator transmitter  36  transmits a signal to remote control  10 , after illumination radiation is “fired” by illumination source  12  at target  14 , contacting target  14  and returned to predator detector  34 , where it is duly detected by predator detector  34 .  
         [0147]    Like above, target  14  also features target detectors  16  connected to a detection processor  38  which processes signals from detectors  16  and converts them to amplified digital signals for identification of weapon systems and threats.  
         [0148]    Processor  38  determines which sensor  16  detects the strongest illumination level and generates a directional vector to illumination source  12  for displaying on display  56 , such that in accordance with the settings of weapon system  24 , target  14  can commence simulated fire on predator  18 , utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus.  
         [0149]    Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator  18  until predator  18  is neutralized. Namely, predator  18  is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated “threat” to target  14 .  
         [0150]    Preferably, display  56  provides real-time display for positioning illumination source  12  and warning the operators of weapon system  24  of the existence, the type and the direction of the detected illumination source  12  based upon which detector  16  detects the strongest illumination level an the variance between illumination levels detected by detectors  16 , as well as the margin between illumination detection by detectors  16  and the wave length of the illumination detected.  
         [0151]    Preferably, display  56  displays the type of illumination source  12 . By way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display  56  as a range finder used by the armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern radars detected by detectors  16  will be displayed either as fire control radars or as a missile, depending on the frequency and PRF detected. A pulse laser having a frequency of at least than 2.0 Hz, fired will be displayed on display  56  as a laser range finder.  
         [0152]    Alternatively, target  14  includes a score board  40  for scoring the number of times target detectors  16  detected illumination as well as the history of illumination types, the method in which the “Threat” was addressed and the success rates of the tactics used against illumination source  12 .  
         [0153]    Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform capable of using a weapon system as well as any weapon system.  
         [0154]    [0154]FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of preferred components of the system of the present invention illustrating a preferred basic embodiment of the system.  
         [0155]    A first remote control  10 , operated by a user, activates a first illumination source  12 . A target  14  including an illumination detector  16 , responsive to illumination from first illumination source  12 , picks up illumination radiation illuminating target  14 .  
         [0156]    Preferably, predator  18  includes a receiver  58  including an amplifier  60  for amplifying signals from remote control transceiver  28  and a processor  62  for processing signals from remote control  10 .  
         [0157]    Preferably, illumination source  12  includes a first laser modulator  64  for producing laser radiation of a first laser system. Preferably, first illumination source  12  includes a second laser modulator  66  for producing laser radiation of a second laser system. More preferably, first laser modulator  64  is a variable laser modulator for producing laser radiation of a plurality of laser systems.  
         [0158]    Preferably, illumination source  12  includes a first frequency generator  68  for producing radar radiation of a first radar system. Preferably, first illumination source  12  includes a second frequency generator  70  for producing radar radiation of a second radar system. More preferably, first frequency generator  68  is a variable frequency generator for producing radar radiation of a plurality of radar systems.  
         [0159]    An antenna  72  for illuminating target  14  with radar radiation is electronically attached and responsive to first frequency generator  68  and second frequency generator  70 .  
         [0160]    A laser source  74  for illuminating target  14  with laser radiation is electronically attached and responsive to first laser modulator  64  and second laser modulator  66 . Additionally, a tunable laser  75  is electronically attached to laser modulator  64  for illuminating target  14  with illumination having a variety of wavelengths.  
         [0161]    Target  14  includes a first optical illumination detector  76  suitably mounted on target  14  to detect illumination. Preferably target  14  also includes a radar radiation detector  78  for detecting radar radiation.  
         [0162]    A laser radiation amplifier  80  is electronically connected to a threat processor  82  for analysis of the type and degree of threat of the laser system detected.  
         [0163]    Preferably, illumination detector  76  also transmits any illumination detected to remote station  50  for threat analysis. Also preferably, radar radiation detector  78  also transmits any radar radiation detected to remote station  50 .  
         [0164]    Thus, training simulations of a wide variety are facilitated including, but not limited to, regular training, two sided training and MILES and weapon simulation system simulations of any type.  
         [0165]    A radar radiation amplifier  84  is also electronically connected to threat processor  82  for analysis of the type and degree of threat of the radar system detected.  
         [0166]    Preferably, threat processor  82  is also electronically connected to a warning system  86  for warning on any threats by any system detected. Preferably, warning system  86  includes an alarm and warning display  88  for alerting occupants of target  14  to the threats.  
         [0167]    Upon a threat being detected by optical detector  76  and radar detector  78  a weapon system  24  mounted on target  14  is used to neutralize any threats posed by illumination source  12 . Preferably, weapon system  24  is either the integral weapon system of target  14  or a dedicated weapon system capable of damaging and destroying any illumination system. Preferably, after target detector  16  detects illumination, target detector  16  transmits a signal to weapon system  24  where a firing solution upon illumination source  12  is processed on threat processor  82 .  
         [0168]    Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system  24 , simulated fire is performed on illumination source  12 , utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual live fire commences against illumination source  12  until illumination source  12  is neutralized. Namely, illumination source  12  is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated “threat” to target  14 .  
         [0169]    Preferably, remote control  10  includes a remote control transceiver  28  for sending signals to first illumination source  12  by sending a signal along the path, generally indicated as “χ”, to first illumination source  12 .  
         [0170]    More preferably, remote control  10  includes a first laser-activating switch  42  for illumination source  12  to illuminate target  14  with radiation of a first type of laser system. Furthermore, remote control  10  preferably includes a second laser-activating switch  44  for illumination source  12  to illuminate target  14  with radiation of a second type of laser system.  
         [0171]    Preferably, remote control  10  also includes a first radar radiation-activating switch  46  for illumination source  12  to illuminate target  14  with a radiation of a first type of radar system. Furthermore, remote control  10  also includes a second radar radiation-activating switch  48  for illumination source  12  to illuminate target  14  with a radiation of a second type of radar system.  
         [0172]    Preferably, target  14  features a plurality of target illumination detectors  16 .  
         [0173]    Preferably for the purpose of for reporting and analyzing any illumination detected by detectors  16 , a target transmitter  90  is situated on target  14  and is in communication with a remote station  50 . Typically, remote station  50  features a receiver  52  and a target indicator  54  indicating when target detectors  16  detect illumination.  
         [0174]    Alternatively, target indicator  54  features a display  56  for displaying the number of times in which target detectors  16  detects an illumination.  
         [0175]    Due to the fact that-illumination source  12  is capable of illuminating target  14  with a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality of weapon systems, MILES and other simulation systems and weapon guidance systems, and the fact that illumination source  12  is mounted, by way of example only, on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), live fire retaliatory procedures are facilitated against illumination source  12  without risking injury or death of the user controlling illumination source  12 .  
         [0176]    Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a model facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire run in a single session.  
         [0177]    Preferably, display  56  provides real-time display for positioning illumination source  12  and warning the operators of weapon system  24  of the existence, the type and the direction of the detected illumination source  12  based upon which detector  16  detects the strongest illumination level an the variance between illumination levels detected by detectors  16 , as well as the margin between illumination detection by detectors  16 . Furthermore, the wavelength, coding and modulation of the illumination detected by detectors  16  are displayed on display  56 .  
         [0178]    Preferably, display  56  displays the type of illumination source  12 . By way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display  56  as a range finder used by the armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern radars detected by detectors  16  will be displayed either as fire control radars or as a missile, depending on the frequency and PRF detected. A pulse laser having a frequency of between 2-20 Hz, will be displayed on display  56  as a laser target designator.  
         [0179]    Alternatively, display  56  includes a target score board  92  for scoring the number of times target detectors  16  detected illumination as well as the history of illumination types, the method in which the “threat” was addressed and the success rates of the tactics used against illumination source  12 .  
         [0180]    Thus, predator  18  can be used as a decoy in actual battles due to predator  18  being capable of illuminating a plurality of targets  14  with illumination of a plurality of weapon systems. Thus, defensive counter-measures will be exploited against predator  18 , thereby creating a valuable offensive tool for any armed force.  
         [0181]    Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform capable of using a weapon system or any weapon system.  
         [0182]    It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are intended only to serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the spirit and the scope of the present invention.