Harpoon Enhanced Target Selectivity Algorithm (HETSA)

Propagation Research Associates, Inc., (PRA) teamed with The Boeing Company Naval Weapons Systems (NWS) group proposes to develop the Harpoon Enhanced Target Selectivity Algorithm (HETSA) to optimize target selection in a Harpoon system using a track-while-scan radar. In particular, PRA will leverage its experience in an M-on-N algorithm developed for the U.S. Army under previous SBIR contracts to support interceptor-target assignment in multiple target environments. HETSA will be based upon a heuristic metric where target selection is accomplished to optimize mission success. The algorithm will assign a weighting to the target based upon its assessed value, the number of other missiles in the scene addressing the target, the risk associated with not engaging the target and other missile parameters. PRA will modify its existing M-on-N algorithm for optimized initial target selection for the Harpoon missile system and will adapt the algorithm for changing target priorities and missile engagement parameters. The HETSA approach will provide an autonomous target engagement capability that combines both fire-and-forget with the high-probability of kill of shoot-look-shoot during multiple simultaneous engagements (MSE). PRA plans to team with Boeing in Phase II to implement HETSA into a simulator or simulation in order to demonstrate its performance.