Information About

Tercom




The Tomahawk has two different guidance systems: One is the Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) and the other one is the Digital Scene Matching Area Correlation (DSMAC) system. A stored map is used by TERCOM to compare with the actual terrain to determine the missile's current position.

The preparation of a TERCOM map requires high-quality geographic data of specific terrain features that meet stringent requirements for changes in elevation. TERCOM lacks in accuracy. It should be supplemented by other technologies, like DSMAC. Global Positioning System ( GPS ) is a better alternative to TERCOM.