Integrated Sensing and Processing for Continuous Identification

Combining area search and high confidence ID for moving and stationary targets on a tactical UAV-sized sensor platform presents challenges due to conflicting waveforms, limited aperture time and limited throughput. In Phase 1, we developed an innovative solution to this problem, which is applicable to both GMTI and SAR. In Phase 2, we propose to demonstrate a prototype sensor that realizes this solution. Our approach is based on two ideas: concurrent data collection and multiple resolution processing. Concurrent collection means that multiple data (e.g. GMTI and HRR, or SAR search and SAR ATR) are collected at the same time to maximize aperture usage. Multiple resolution processing means that low resolution detections efficiently cue computationally-intensive high resolution processing. These two factors, employed in both GMTI/HRR and SAR modes, combine to create a radar that is uniquely suited to track targets through move-stop-move scenarios and can be deployed on a tactical UAV-sized platform. In Phase 2, we intend to modify our existing E-Series radar to demonstrate concurrent GMTI and HRR modes, to track and ID a moving target and determine when it stops, to form low and high resolution SAR images of the stopped target, and to redetect and track the target when it moves.