SYSTEMS ANALYSIS APPROACH TO FIREBEE FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

The evolution of the Fire bee flight control system began with a delineation of both the performance requirements and the limitations imposed on the system. A detailed preliminary analysis of the desired performance characteristics, coupled with the objectives of simplicity, low cost, reliability and use of state-of-the-art system components led directly to system block diagrams showing several basic configurations capable of meeting guidance requirements. Analog and physical simulation using actual autopilot components resulted in a final system design which, in flight, proved capable of meeting the drone system objectives.

In 1947, the Air Force requested manufacturers to develop a transonic, high altitude, remotely controlled drone missile to serve as a target for air defense systems. In response to this request the Fire bee * Drone Missile System was conceived and developed. During the last three years the Fire bee has been in volume production.