Pave Spike

[David]

Pave Spike was an electro-optical target acquisition, laser designator, and weapon delivery system for the F-4D (EF-4D) and F-4E aircraft. It provided precision laser designation, ranging, and tracking of ground targets for attack with conventional ordnance or laser-guided weapons. It used a cockpit-selectable four-digit code and is PRF or PIM (pulse interval module) capable.

Specifications
Description:	Pod contained, electro-optical laser designator and ranging system.
Function:	Optical tracker boresighted to LTD. Provides precision LTD, ranging and tracking of ground targets for attacks with conventional ordnance or LGWs.
Employment:	Self 1asing for autonomous LGB/LLLGB delivery or "buddy lasing" for other aircraft delivering LGB/LLLGB.
PRF Codes:	Classified. In flight selectable.
Target Nominal Range (for std tgt 2.3 x 2.3 meters):	Stationary- Slant range/visibility dependent. Moving- Slant range/visibility dependent.
System Unique Capabilities:	Uses imaging infrared sensors and laser designator/ rangefinder for target acquisition and weapons delivery. Day and night limited adverse weather system.
Limitations:	Must see and optically track target. Manual tracking operation throughout gimbal limits. Dependent on operator skill. Not "all" weather system.
Platform:	F-4D, F-4E, Hawker Siddley Buccaneer