Real time classification of sea mines using MIRK processing in Fleet MCM sonars

The goal of the material identification reflectivity kernel (MIRK) MCM SBIR Phase II project is to demonstrate the capabilities of MIRK algorithms and software to improve the performance of existing MCM sonars by significantly reducing the number of false target calls that need to be investigated during the identification process. The Phase II efforts will focus on exploiting sonar returns to allow more definitive discrimination between actual and false targets than is currently available. Continuing with the success of Phase I, this technology will support the decision to change a "mine-like object" classification to "identified mine" or "not a mine." By capturing target attributes not currently provided, we will use acoustic sensor data from fleet standard sonars to complement the imagery produced by standard algorithms, thereby aiding the operator in reducing false calls. In addition, we will continue to improve our understanding of the physics of the sonar signal interaction with the target, through modeling and simulation.