Defence and aerospace platforms rely on accurate positioning, navigation and timing (PNT). In order to support mission systems, vehicle control, sensor alignment, and test and evaluation activities. Inertial navigation sensors play a critical role by providing continuous motion and orientation data, particularly in dynamic environments where GNSS performance may vary.
VectorNav designs and manufactures MEMS-based inertial navigation products that are integrated into defence and aerospace systems requiring compact, embedded navigation capability.
Metromatics is the exclusive distributor for VectorNav in Australia and New Zealand, providing local sales and support.
Defence and Aerospace Navigation Requirements
Typical defence and aerospace requirements include:
- Reliable orientation reference (roll, pitch, yaw)
- Navigation aiding for mission and vehicle systems
- Motion compensation for sensors and payloads
- Time-aligned data capture across multiple subsystems
- Compact, integratable hardware suitable for embedded architectures
These requirements are commonly addressed using IMU, AHRS, and GNSS-aided INS technologies integrated within a broader system architecture.
Embedded PNT for Defence Platforms
VectorNav products provide embedded PNT capability when GNSS is available most of the time.
- Positioning: Absolute position derived from GNSS
- Navigation: Orientation and motion derived from inertial sensors
- Timing: GNSS-derived timing used for sensor synchronisation and data alignment
GNSS timing outputs are used for several purposes. They help with sensor synchronisation. They also assist in time-aligned data logging. Additionally, they support system coordination in larger defence and aerospace systems.
VectorNav products assume GNSS availability for absolute position updates, with inertial sensors maintaining continuity during short GNSS interruptions.
VectorNav Inertial Navigation Sensors for Defence and Aerospace
VectorNav’s defence-relevant product categories include:
IMU and AHRS
Used where platforms require:
- Orientation reference
- Stabilisation and control inputs
- Motion measurement without absolute position
IMU/AHRS devices provide calibrated inertial data and real-time attitude outputs for embedded integration.
GNSS-Aided INS
Used where platforms require:
- Position and velocity
- Orientation and motion reference
- Integrated navigation outputs
GNSS-INS devices combine inertial sensors with GNSS receivers. As well as, onboard estimation to deliver position, velocity, and attitude outputs suitable for integration into mission systems.
Dual-Antenna GNSS-INS
Used where:
- Accurate heading is required
- Magnetic interference limits magnetometer use
- Platforms can support dual GNSS antennas
Dual-antenna configurations derive heading from GNSS rather than magnetic sensors, improving reliability in challenging environments.
Typical Defence and Aerospace Uses
In defence and aerospace applications, VectorNav products are commonly integrated as part of a larger system to support:
- Vehicle orientation reference
- Navigation aiding within mission or autonomy systems
- Motion compensation for sensors and payloads
- Test, evaluation, and instrumentation systems
VectorNav products are embedded subsystems and are not intended as standalone navigation appliances or strategic-grade navigation systems.
What VectorNav Is Not (Important for Defence Programs)
VectorNav products are:
- Not FOG-based
- Not strategic-grade INS
- Not designed for long-duration navigation without GNSS
Applications requiring hours or days of navigation without GNSS. Typically require FOG or strategic-grade INS solutions, which fall outside the VectorNav product scope.
Integration Considerations
Final navigation performance depends on system-level factors, including:
- Antenna placement and installation
- Vehicle dynamics and vibration environment
- GNSS availability and quality
- Integration with external aiding sources
VectorNav provides sensor-level outputs and onboard estimation; overall system performance is determined by how the device is integrated into the platform architecture.
Local Defence Support from Metromatics
As the Australian and New Zealand distributor for Inertial Navigation Sensors for Defence and Aerospace, Metromatics provides:
- Application scoping and product selection support
- Integration assistance
- Local warranty handling and repairs/returns
- Responsive quoting and support throughout the project lifecycle
Call to Action
Discuss your defence or aerospace application with our team.
👉 Request a VectorNav product recommendation
👉 Discuss platform requirements and integration considerations
👉 Request pricing or lead-time information