Network-Centric Warfare Radio-Frequency (RF) Real-Time Hardware-In-the-Loop (HITL) Synthetic Battlespace Research Capabilities/Technologies

Man/hardware-in-the-loop laboratory simulation is the most cost-effective methodology for evolving/maturing advanced single/multi-ship geolocation technologies because the battlefield can be brought to the laboratory through multi-spectral synthetic battlespace simulation. Current laboratory network-centric battlespace and RF threat environment simulators do not provide the required fidelity to accurately simulate the parameters needed to develop ultra-precise direction finding and geolocation capabilities. DRA proposes to solve this challenging technology limitation by developing an Single/Multi-ship Geolocation Testbed (SMGT) for rapid prototyping of advanced single/multi-ship geolocation systems. The SMGT flexible architecture will enable the development of advanced geolocation technologies for single and multiple aircraft within a controlled laboratory environment enabling repeatable test and step-by-step evaluation/debugging capabilities. SMGT will provide simulator technology to develop advanced geolocation capabilities for receiver/processor technologies within new military concepts such as Advanced Threat Alert (ATA), Sensors Forward and Lightweight Modular Support Jammer (LMSJ) for application to military aircraft such as F-35, F-15, F-16, F-117, B-2, and C-130. During Phase II, DRA will develop a prototype capability and demonstrate key performance characteristics. The Phase II effort will provide a building-block capability for rapid evolution of advanced single/multi-ship geolocation technology.