Ballistic Aerial Target System (BATS)

The Ballistic Aerial Target System (BATS) provides a low-cost, realistic live target for the U.S. Army's Air Defense Artillery (ADA) battalions in support of the Stinger Man-Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS) and Avenger missile systems. BATS may be flown at low and medium altitudes and at speeds from 275 to 550 knots (140 to 285 meters per second). Its "pop-up" characteristics simulate the trajectory of a high-performance threat, such as a cruise missile, flying low to minimize radar detection that suddenly "pops up" and then dives on its target to deliver its ordnance. The BATS system enables gunners to achieve quick reaction habits to assist in their training methods to mitigate this type of threat. It is designed for operation and launching by military personnel, and the hardware can be requisitioned through the wholesale supply system; however, contract support teams can also provide this training area "turn-key" target service. The BATS systems are not suitable for air defense gun systems.