Optimal Joint Search and Sensor Management

Sensor management of disparate sensors 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 sensor management that draws upon basic research previously completed by us for AFOSR. It is based on four innovations: (1) a multisensor-multitarget likelihood function that encapsulates all relevant information regarding the characteristics of the various sensors; (2) a "dynamic situational significance map" that mathematically specifies the meaning of "tactical significance" for a given theater at a given moment; (3) an intuitively meaningful and potentially computationally tractable objective function, namely the expected number of targets of interest (ToIs); and (4) integration of these two concepts with approximate multitarget filters (multitarget-moment filters and multi-hypothesis correlator (MHC) engines). Specific Phase I tasks are (1) determine the unique sensing characteristics of various EO/IR sensors; (2) develop the necessary theoretical extensions; (3) develop the necessary computational approximations; (4) implement a concept-feasibility prototype algorithm; (5) test this algorithm in simulated, reduced-complexity scenarios; and (6) develop a detailed plan for further analysis and implementation in a Phase II effort. Phase II will emphasize development of a prototype sensor management algorithm to be tested using real data. The project team includes Dr. Ronald Mahler of Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin will provide both technical and commercialization support in the application of sensor management technologies during all phases of the project.