Virtual Aircraft Target Generator for ADS-B Testing
aerospace
Virtual Aircraft Target Generator for ADS-B Testing (US8604965B2)
Accelerating certification and validation of ADS-B technologies
For more information, contact the FAA's Technology Transfer Program at Email NATL-Technology-Transfer@faa.gov
Overview
This patented system, developed by the Federal Aviation Administration, enables the generation of virtual aircraft targets for safe and efficient testing of avionics systems, such as satellite-based surveillance, including ADS-B. By simulating real aircraft using RF signals embedded with synthetic GPS data, the system allows flight crews and developers to validate surveillance system performance in realistic but controlled environments without deploying additional aircraft.
The Technology
The Virtual Target Generator (VTG) is a system designed to create radio frequency (RF) signals that mimic the presence of nearby aircraft, for testing satellite-based surveillance systems. The VTG works by using a GPS receiver or other position data source to calculate a virtual target position, which may be calculated by applying predefined offsets and trajectories relative to the host. These virtual positions are encoded into standard message formats, such as ADS-B, and modulated onto an RF carrier signal.
The VTG includes a calibrated signal amplifier that adjusts the signal power so only the target test aircraft receives the signal, ensuring no other aircraft are affected. The test aircraft's surveillance avionics detect and interpret these virtual targets as if they were actual aircraft, enabling full participation in the testing of traffic collision avoidance, surveillance, or display systems.
The VTG supports complex test scenarios including dynamic movement, multiple simultaneous targets, and customizable aircraft parameters such as speed, heading, and altitude. The system is fully compliant with FAA ADS-B specifications and can be installed on the test aircraft itself or on a nearby companion aircraft.


Benefits
- Real-Time Simulation: Replicates nearby aircraft digitally, reducing the need for multiple physical test planes.
- Lower Risk: Enables “ghost aircraft” scenarios with no collision danger.
- Repeatable Testing: Provides highly consistent and customizable test conditions.
- Cost Efficiency: Cuts expenses for equipment, fuel, personnel, and coordination.
- Standards Compliance: Meets FAA ADS-B message formats and protocols.
- Dynamic Control: Allows real-time adjustment of virtual aircraft positions and trajectories.
- Flexible Operation: Can be run from the test aircraft or a separate host platform.
- Safe Integration: Prevents interference with other airspace users through controlled RF signal strength.
Applications
- ADS-B Validation: System testing and certification for commercial aircraft.
- Pilot Training: Realistic traffic conflict and avoidance scenarios.
- UAS Operations: Simulation and coordination exercises for operators.
- Military Readiness: Combat training and electronic warfare scenarios.
- Defense Testing: Missile guidance evaluation using virtual intercept targets.
- Search and Rescue: Drone coordination with simulated survivors or beacons.
- Satellite Networks: Mobile network testing with moving-node simulations.
- Airspace Integration: Civil testing for new aviation systems and procedures.
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