Multi-Band / Multi-Threat Warning Sensor

A program to develop an advanced Multi-Band/Multi-Threat Warning Sensor capable of simultaneously detecting and classifying both missile threats and laser designator threats is proposed. Incorporating two MWIR infrared focal plane arrays, this system is intended for multi-threat warning applications, monitoring a field of view of -10 degrees to +60 degrees in elevation, and either 180 degrees or 360 degrees in azimuth (a 180 degree system is proposed). The system detects and classifies threats as: 1) passively guided or unguided missile based on CO2 red spike and blue spike emission; 2) 1.06 micron laser designator or range finder; 3) 1.55 micron laser designator or range finder. The proposed system builds upon Surface Optics’ real-time hyperspectral imaging and dual-band imaging activities, including work currently being done under another Navy Phase II SBIR. Already preliminarily designed under the Phase I effort, the four-band Threat Warning Infrared (TWIR-4) QaudroChrome sensor will be designed in detail, manufactured, and tested during Phase II. By using a novel very wide angle field-of-view optical configuration in conjunction with two MWIR focal plane arrays (FPAs) and appropriate filters, the system provides complete laser designator and in-flight missile warning, including type of threat and position to within 1 degree. Using readily available components allows this system to be produced at very low cost relative to alternative systems.