The Evaluation and Use of the Dectra Navigation System

• Published in: Journal of Navigation
• Main Author: Hare, E. W.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1958
• Subjects: Ocean Engineering; Oceanography; North Atlantic
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0373463300017768; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0373463300017768

Dectra is a long-range radio navigation system designed to give accurate position fixing coverage over specific areas, and in particular over long trans-oceanic crossings. The position of an aircraft or ship equipped with a Dectra receiver is continuously available in the form of dial indications relating to coordinates of a Dectra lattice, and in addition this information can be presented pictorially on a normal Decca flight log. The system is at present functioning over the North Atlantic, and flight trials have been in progress since May 1957. This paper discusses the experience gained and the results obtained in the trials.