Automated Ship Active Sonar Mutual Interference Planning

Phase I of this project will provide an automated active sonar mutual interference (MI) planning module design and proof-of-concept demonstration with the following innovative elements: Methodology for predicting MI levels, characteristics, and timing from a transmitting sonar to a receiving sonar based on the sonar type and setups of each ship, range and relative aspect angle, and propagation factors; Measures of effectiveness (MOEs) that quantify the degrading effects of MI on the receiving sonar performance; Hierarchy of MI reduction techniques that can be evaluated automatically (or interactively) to determine the optimum setup, spacing, and relative orientation for combined search performance; and Graphical user interface (GUI) that allows the search planner to obtain an intuitive "feel" for the multiship/MI planning process and sensitivity analysis. The technical approach to this project is compatible with sensor performance prediction (SPP) program architecture with a task element structure that is designed for technical risk mitigation and extension. Risk mitigation is achieved as each innovative element represents a useful research effort that can be independently carried through Phases II and III. Technical extension is accommodated as measured interference levels that can be incorporated in subsequent project phases.