Spread Spectrum Techniques for Sonar Ping Technology

This project will focus on software and firmware development that further improves the search and detection phase of Air ASW submarine prosecution using pulsed SSPT waveforms. These enhancements will allow for at least four simultaneous sources to broadcast simultaneously. Estimated probability of detection will increase in difficult submarine detection conditions and search times will be reduced in dense field spacing where single-echo detection rates are higher. The goal for this SSPT Phase II.5 is to develop the real-time software for in-flight testing using an at-sea target. At the end of Phase II.5, we will have demonstrated our SSPT technology in the aircraft during a real mission, and demonstrated its usefulness on at-sea data. To achieve this goal, we are proposing to complete the real-time software development of the SSPT and SSPT-LRT software. We will procure 32 modified SSQ-125 sonobuoys and update their interfaces. We will conduct test flights and update simulations. These tasks will be utilized to prepare the SSPT software for integration into the MAC signal processing software and identify risks to the SSPT integration under the Increment 3 program. If necessary, updates to the SSPT software will be made to address risks identified during this effort.