Target Location Technology for Ground Based Observers

To support Non Line of Sight (NLOS) lethality for the USMC weapons systems timely, accurate targeting is needed for Ground Based Observers using imagery collected from a Tier II UAS. In Phase I, an Unmanned Air System (UAS) payload was designed and a systems architecture developed that could support NLOS fires using mensurated imagery generated in real-time using a GPS, IMU, and camera system and provide access to the georectified and georegistered imagery for targeting through a web interface. Our Phase I analysis showed that this technology would enable a GBO to determine target coordinates at ranges greater than 5 km from a UAS with target location errors of less than 10 meters. In Phase II, NAVSYS will develop a fully functional prototype system and integrate the payload onto a surrogate UAS with a GRIM server that the GBO can access through a WiFi link and laptop. This system will be used to demonstrate the following capabilities in an operationally relevant environment: • Georegistration of images to produce mosaiced, overhead map in near-real-time • Web server to support GBO targeting from imagery through a WiFi interface • Determination of accurate target coordinates for Call for Fire (< 10 meters TLE)