Virtual Receiver/Exciter (VREX) Generalized Simulator with Selectable Waveforms to Support Radar and Software Analysis

ABSTRACT: The design, development, test, and implementation of a Virtual Receiver/Exciter (VREX) Generalized Digital Radar Stimulator prototype the HSSTM - needed to maintain and upgrade the capabilities of the Space Surveillance Network (SSN) dedicated ground based sensors, based on deciBel Research innovative, open source, common, modular, transportable, and high-fidelity radar simulation components - dBTools/dBLibs/dBSTM - is proposed in this effort. These tools have been used successfully to build both generic and very specific radar signature simulations of complex target and environment scenarios in support of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) , the US Army, the US Air Force, and the JLENs Program Office. This toolset has evolved through the adaptation of advanced computing/processing technologies and the novel software techniques required to exploit such technologies. The HSSTM capabilities in illustrative SSN scenarios will be demonstrated in a proof-of-principle exercise. BENEFIT: The availability of tactical VREX stimulators allows for: a) the efficient, low cost, and expansive testing of new sensor concepts as they proceed through acquisition and mission acceptance, b) software IV & V and performance testing of new algorithms and techniques, c) expanded pre-mission planning capabilities, d) utilization in simulated ground test conditions and in pre-mission planning and analyses, and e) off-site testing of new software and functionality of persistent operational sensor assets. deciBel common, modular, transportable platform, using advanced software and processing tools will provide an opportunity to expand significantly its current Stimulator customer base. Completion of the Phase I, and eventually of a Phase II, effort will permit deciBel to have established a proven open architecture, portable, and modular VREX design and implementation. This should allow deciBel to position itself in developing VREX components for: a) all remaining Space Surveillance Network dedicated ground based sensors, b) The Air Force Space Surveillance System (Space Fence) radars, and c) other Data Collection Sensors. deciBel is also positioned to develop all of MDA sensor VREX/Stimulators in support of Independent Ground and Performance Testing, c) deciBel is also pursuing teaming up with Industry prime contractors to develop VREX/Stimulators for the Navy Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR). Finally deciBel will contacts NASA, SETI, and LLNL, MIT LL, other FFRDCs, and AFRL/RY address their sensor collection methods & techniques sharing requirements that can benefit from the operations of RF Stimulators