SPOTter/Sensor (SPOTS) Targeting system using relative kinematic GPS processing

The purpose of this SBIR is to demonstrate precision targeting to enable terminal guidance of munitions from Spotter-to-Shooter, in a "Virtual Laser" mode of operation. This requires the Spotter to be able to precisely determine the target coordinates (and munition aim point) in 3-D coordinates, to allow for automatic call for fire and automatic target handoff to the weapon system. To support a targeting accuracy of 1 meter at a range of 1 km from the target, the SPOTS system must be able to determine range to the target to an accuracy of 1 meter, and bearing to an accuracy of 1 mrad. In the proposed system architecture an innovative "relative kinematic" algorithm is described. Simulation results have shown that this can support 1 mrad attitude accuracy in a man-portable targeting system by optimally integrating data from a GPS receiver and Micro-Electro- Mechanical (MEM) inertial measurement unit (IMU). Under this Phase I contract, we will develop and demonstrate the attitude accuracy possible with the relative kinematic GPS/inertial algorithms using in-house test equipment. Under Phase II, a man-portable SPOTS unit will be fielded and tested.