5. Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM)

Tercom marked a major improvement in low-altitude missile navigation. This system uses stored terrain elevation data in conjunction with radar altimeter readings to ascertain the position of the missile and guide corrections. The technology lets missiles follow terrain contours to evade hostile radar systems and fly at very low altitudes. Modern TERCOM systems achieve accuracy levels before unattainable by including digital terrain elevation data and sophisticated pattern matching algorithms.
6. Digital Scene Matching Area Correlator (DSMAC)

DSMAC technology gave missile guidance systems visual recognition ability. To find location and perform course corrections, this sophisticated technology matches pre-stored reference photos with real-time optical or infrared pictures. Especially in urban settings where conventional navigation techniques may be hindered by buildings and other objects, the approach allows hitherto unheard-of accuracy in terminal guidance phases. Modern implementations improve accuracy and target discrimination by means of AI-powered image recognition algorithms.
