Abstract: A target tracking device for target tracking missiles having an electro-optical seeker assembly mounted in a missile structure through gimbals. The seeker assembly responds to target radiation and provides target deviation signals. Actuators, controlled by the target deviation signals, cause the seeker assembly to track the target. The electro-optical seeker assembly is pivotally mounted in the missile structure about a roll axis and a pitch axis only, the pitch axis being orthogonal to the roll axis. First and second pick-offs, providing pick-off signals, are provided for picking off angles of rotation of the seeker assembly about the roll and pitch axes. A structure-fixed inertial sensor unit is provided for measuring the angular rates about three mutually orthogonal axes and providing angular rate signals.

Abstract: In a steering loop for missiles which are guided to a target by means of a seeker head, the seeker head having a limited field of view, the seeker head determines the line of sight to the target by look angles with respect to missile-fixed pitch and yaw axes. A signal processing computer receives the seeker head signals and generates signals which determine the motion of the missile. These signals are applied to a steering system and guide the missile to the target. In order to avoid loss of the target due to limitations of the field of view of the seeker head, the signal processing computer influences the signals determining the motion of the missile such as to ensure a motion of the missile which holds the line of sight always within the field of view.