Which acronym designates the subsystem responsible for acquiring targets?

• A. FCS - Fire control subsystem
• B. PADS - Position attitude determination subsystem
• C. TU - Traversing unit
• D. TAS - Target acquisition subsystem

Answer: (D)

The essential idea is that target finding and designation are handled by the Target Acquisition Subsystem. This part of the system houses the sensors and processing that search for potential targets, verify what they are, and designate them for engagement. Once a target is acquired, TAS passes the targeting data to the Fire Control Subsystem, which calculates the firing solution (range, lead, etc.) and prepares the missile for launch. The other subsystems serve different roles: the Fire Control Subsystem computes and manages the firing solution; the Traversing Unit physically moves the launcher to align with the designated target; the Position Attitude Determination System handles vehicle or platform orientation and position rather than target discovery. So the acronym that designates the subsystem responsible for acquiring targets is the Target Acquisition Subsystem.