Innovative Adaptive Processing Techniques for Wideband and Multi-Band Conformal Arrays

The objective of this effort is the development of a feasibility concept for wideband/conformal array processing. This will include the development of specific algorithms and an evaluation of their ability to achieve the required levels of subcluttervisibility, minimum detectable velocity, and detection and false alarm probabilities. Wideband and mutual coupling effects will be considered. An existing simulation tool SMS (Signal Modeling and Simulation) will be upgraded for conformal and widebandanalysis. This effort will identify/develop techniques for the STAP algorithm for wideband/conformal arrays, which include beam-space STAP algorithms, focusing matrix compensation (FMC) and uniform linear virtual array (ULVA) techniques. The proposed Phase I effort, if successful, will lead to a Phase II effort that at least one algorithm identified during Phase I will be prototyped and demonstrated. Atual conformal arrays or conformal array pattern data provided by the Government shallbe used for this demonstration. The commercial potential is excellent for transitioning this technology into telecommunications (wireless) and navigation (GPS) systems utilizing conformal arrays mounted onto or integrated into air or ground vehicles.