Combined FLIR- Coherent Ladar Focalplane Development

Modern conflict areas are a complex mix of urban and natural clutter, adverse weather and a high density of friendly forces, foes, and non-combatants. Owing to the increasing complexity of conflict areas, long standoff detection, non-cooperativeidentification (NCTID), and targeting of both air and ground targets has increased in importance. At the same time, surveillance (UAVs) and strike platforms have become smaller while missions have increased. Multi-function systems can address the diverseneeds of reduced size/weight/power and increased functionality. CTI proposes the continuation of a Phase I effort in combined FLIR-Coherent Laser Radar Cell Design to produce the first midwave infrared focalplanes with combined functionality of direct andcoherent detection. Midwave infrared (MWIR) sensor capability is of particular interest for weather & obscurant penetration, enabling our forces to detect critical signatures in the conflict area under all conditions. The shape and vibrometry informationprovided by a coherent laser radar (coupled to a MWIR FLIR) can provide the critical data for rapid NCTID. Significant leverage with a multi-million dollar DARPA MTO 3D Imaging Device program has already been shown in Phase I, and is expected to continueduring Phase II. With the implementation of the proposed technology, this sensor would provide the combined capabilities of high-resolution MWIR FLIR for passive infrared search & track (IRST), combined with active remote sensing of surface vibrations(ground & hard target). With continued technology development, expansion of the functionality is possible to include standoff detection of effluents, chemical & biohazards, hard target identification/designation countermeasures, flight data gathering, andsensing of winds & aerosols.