Automated Hand-held UXO Detection, Classification and Discrimination Sensor

Not Available Deficiencies in the Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System (ATCRBS) have lead to the development and use of the Mode S Beacon System, which is backward compatible with the ATCRBS. In the U.S. and Europe, Mode S Secondary Surveillance Radars (SSRs) have been installed at many land-based sites and most commercial aircraft carry the requisite Mode S transponders. Navy shipboard and airborne IFF systems are designed to detect aircraft using the ATCRBS (with Mode 4 for friendly detection). The Navy must evaluate the feasibility and benefits of adding a Mode S capability to these IFF systems. Mode S is expected to improve detection of beacon replies and bring enhanced situational awareness in hostile environments where civilian platforms are present in the battle space. In Phase I and the Phase I Option, TSC will identify the benefits of various Mode S implementation options, construct a table of trade-offs, and generate a preliminary architecture for two primary options. The analysis will include study of the modifications required to the associated platform interfaces, displays, and data distribution functions. TSC will then refine the architecture for the one most feasible option in preparation for Phase II prototyping of critical components.