Military Potential Test of SG-100 Slaved Gyro Compass System.

The US Army Aviation Test Board tested the SG-100 Slaved Gyro Compass System to determine its military potential for use in O-1 , U-1 , and U-6 airplanes as a replacement for the Gyro Directional Indicator, AN5735 series. The test items were installed in a U-1A and a U-6A Airplane and were operated 50 and 250 flight hours, respectively. An O-1 airplane was not available for the test. The SG-100 was operationally superior to the AN5735-1 during en route and terminal area flights, but was subject to the same gyro limitations as the AN6735-1 during tactical missions where a high degree of maneuverability was required. No deficiencies were found during the test. Two shortcomings were found. It was concluded that the SG-100 has military potential as a replacement for the AN5735-1, and that correction of the shortcomings would enhance the military potential. It was recommended that the shortcomings be corrected as technically and economically feasible, and that the SG-100 be service tested.