Assessment of Advanced Logistics Delivery System (ALDS) Launch Systems Concepts

摘要

The Advanced Logistics Delivery System (ALDS) concept proposes the use of ship launched, unmanned gliders to re-supply shore based ground forces and requires a launch system capable of delivering unpowered UAVs to a range of 50 miles. A study to analyze the machinery technologies capable of meeting this requirement identified a near term solution based on electric linear motor technology derived from the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and incorporating superconductive materials in the rotor, stator windings, and electrical wiring. The development of structurally robust, high capability cryo- cooling components was identified as the most critical effort required to field a prototype system in the 10 to 15 year timeframe. The far term solution proposed was based on advances in rail gun technology anticipated as a result of Navy rail gun technology development projects currently planned for the next decade.