Dynamic Color Ratio Infrared Simulator Source

The Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWC), Weapons Division, China Lake, has a requirement to develop a Dynamic Color Ratio Infrared Simulator (DCR-IRS) source for open-air test and evaluation (T&E) of missile warning and countermeasures systems. “Two-color” IR sensors employed by missile warning systems are used to discriminate against false threats by examining the “color ratio” of the signature, more specifically, the relative power in two mid-IR bands. Since the spectral (mid-IR) signatures of missile plumes can change significantly during the missile flight, an IR simulation with a dynamic color ratio capability is required for realistic T&E of these two-color missile warning systems. Technology Service Corporation (TSC) is proposing three innovative solutions to the DCR-IRS requirement. The primary solution, based on technology employed in the Infrared Simulator and Target Array (ISTAR) system at NAWC, uses flame sources configured to dynamically control the power levels in two mid-IR bands. Additional solutions use lasers and lamps to generate the required spectral signature. Under Phase I, TSC will investigate these solutions and others, performing tradeoff studies to establish feasibility; then, in Phase II, TSC will develop and demonstrate a proof-of-concept system that will provide ISTAR with an initial DCR-IRS capability.