10 Breakthrough Missile Guidance Systems: How the 8th Changed Combat Rules

5. Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM)

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Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) represented a major advancement in low-altitude missile navigation. This system uses stored terrain elevation data and radar altimeter readings to determine the missile's position and make course corrections. TERCOM enables missiles to follow terrain contours, flying at extremely low altitudes to evade enemy radar systems. Modern TERCOM systems incorporate digital terrain elevation data and advanced pattern-matching algorithms, achieving levels of accuracy previously unattainable.