Distributed Multi-Layer Data Fusion

As the Navy moves forward with plans to augment the conventional assets with unmanned sensor vehicles, standoff weapons, and intelligent command and control (C2) systems we find more data will be available from these remote assets that is needed to maintain an accurate, complete, and consistent Common Tactical Picture (CTP). Design considerations for multi-platform, multi-layer data fusion are discussed relative to the solicitation requirements. Bandwidth limitations, correlated (redundant) data considerations, fault tolerance issues, distributed/decentralized design concepts, and network topology impacts are summarized with respect to alternative architectures. A multi-layer fusion architecture robust against the issues is presented. The generalized and novel application of correlated data management and optimum bandwidth utilization is presented with detailed descriptions of benefits. Alternate commercialization markets such as border security, port and physical plant security, air traffic control, and others are presented.