Multi-Sensor Data Fusion for Littoral Undersea Warfare

The integration of multi-sensor data into effective ASW weapons systems is becoming more critical as the submarine threat has become quieter, and the areas of operation will include the harsher littoral environments. Correlating data from multiple sensors with different detection modes will be required for target detection. However, in a multi-static, multi-receiver system, an operator would quickly become overwhelmed with a manual analysis approach. The Airborne ASW mission effectiveness will be enhanced with the combined use of active and passive sensor data to form probable target “tracks” on a tactical plot. The probable target “tracks” are presented to the operator in a manner that allows quick review, and requires minimal interaction to initiate and control. This “top-down, field first” view of the operating environment requires new concepts in operator interfaces, and a multi-sensor data fusion system. RDA proposes multi-sensor Data Fusion Algorithms and Operator-Machine-Interface (OMI) concepts that address the fundamental problems of target detection in the high clutter environments of the Airborne ASW mission. These algorithms combine disparate information from EER, IEER, passive Lines of Bearing, and other sensor data to form probable tracks for quick operator review. The techniques apply directly to existing and advanced multi-static ASW search systems.BENEFITS: The proposed Data Fusion algorithms and OMI concepts will increase Airborne ASW mission effectiveness. The “field-level view” will allow better situation awareness, and will reduce operator fatigue, thus improving performance. The techniques are particularly useful for the P-3 and MMA platforms, but would also apply to any ASW system that uses sonobuoys. For homeland security concerns or drug interdiction, high speed (drug) boat tracks or ship tracks not in the usual shipping channels, can be tagged for investigation.