Abstract: An improved latch assembly which operates with a phased array radar antenna to fixedly retain the radar antenna in any one of several predetermined positions. The latch assembly comprises an elongated body member having a leading end section tapered to interfit into the detent means without jamming, a wedging member having a tapered wedge-like configuration which slidably interfits with the gradually tapered ledge of the body member, and a controllable spring-loaded actuating means operable to move the elongated body member and the wedge member into locking engagement with a predetermined detent and then to move the wedging member an additional small distance toward the predetermined detent, this causes the wedging member to be forced laterally an amount sufficient to contact the sides of the housing to effect a controlled wedging of the latch assembly in the housing to prevent any rotation of the radar antenna because of undesired clearances between the elongated body member and the housing.

Abstract: The system includes a number of cables and pulleys arranged to prevent vertical and sidewise tilting of the sensor mounting structure (SMS) about a transverse axis while affording a useful limited degree of vertical and sidewise translational freedom for resilient vibration-isolating support. The cable and pulley arrangement extends from end to end of the SMS in a narrow radial clearanceway between the SMS and an elongated cylindrical pod housing to be affixed to an aircraft for disposition at its exterior.