This Standard defines:

a) Standard units of measure.

b) Standard reference frames for the definition of geometric data.

c) Platform orientation (3 axis) and motion.

d) Principles of alignment.

Navigational terms and definitions are also included in this standard in order to ensure a common understanding of the meaning of data items which are used throughout the combat system.

This standard applies to intra-platform transfer of data, which is primarily intended for but not necessarily restricted to, tactical data via local area networks. A representative list of parameters that are normally expressed as numeric values is given in Table 1.

The rules for data parameter representation are defined in the DRS [14].

This standard has been derived from reference [22], which in turn was derived from reference [18], and was intended to be compatible with, the NATO Standard for the Digital Representation of Shipboard Data Parameters, STANAG 4222 [13]. It contains additional information regarding navigation references, spherical polar coordinate systems, time standards and Combat System alignment. This standard has common areas of application with reference [18] and is intended to be compatible in those areas. Note that parameter data representation aspects are not covered by this standard but by reference [14].

Exceptions to this standard can be made where necessary and should be fully and unambiguously documented in the Data Exchange Specification (DES) or other documentation. Compliance with this standard should not constrain system designers from using the best system engineering solutions. It is intended to reduce integration risk by making a common framework for data exchange available, and by documenting common interpretations in use.

Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to define the common terminology for measurements and orientation for the exchange of data on any RN platform.