Unified Interceptor Assignment Algorithms

Detecting, localizing, and intercepting one or more missiles during ascent phase presents a daunting theoretical and practical challenge. Scientific Systems Company, Inc. of Woburn MA and its subcontractor, Lockheed Martin MS2 Tactical Systems (LMTS)\ of Eagan MN, propose a foundational, control-theoretic approach to such problems. It is based on the idea of mathematically modeling a multiplatform-multisensor-multitarget system as SINGLE, JOINTLY EVOLVING STOCHASTIC PROCESS. All relevant information regarding behaviors of all sensors (whether passive or active), all platforms, and all targets are inherently integrated into the algorithm design at the outset. As a consequence, all major functions---data fusion, detection, tracking, navigation, and control, etc., are inherently integrated into a single, unified system. In principle, therefore, both the fly-out and the end-game are tightly integrated. Our approach is based on the following innovations: (1) multisensor-multitarget likelihood functions; (2)dynamic "tactical importance functions" that mathematically specifies the meaning of Target of Interest; (3) an intuitively meaningful and statistically based resource-management objective functions; (4) modeling of interceptor and ascending-missile constraints using multitarget Markov transition densities; and (5) integration of these concepts with nonlinear multitarget filters. The project team includes Dr. Ronald Mahler of Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin will provide both technical and commercialization support in the application of the advanced Interceptor Assignment Algorithms.