Cueing Specific Processor for DADs

Although the original goals of DADS have been partially realized, the operational emphasis has changed to focus on cueing other ASW assets. The effective search rate of ASW assets is greatly enhanced by cueing. The algorithmic focus for a cueing systemchanges from tracking to detection, classification, and final track estimation. Dynamics Technology, Inc. (DTI) proposes modifications to the existing DADS processor to better satisfy the new goals.DTI proposes to achieve better performance in two ways. First, the existing MMFT processor is currently optimized to track targets based upon short data windows. The optimization of MMFT will be redirected toward early detection and target depthestimation at the expense of location. In addition, classifiers from other DADS sensors will be integrated with MMFT to improve target classification. Second, alternatives to the current acoustics/non-acoustics fusion paradigm will be investigated. Inparticular, two alternative approaches to fuse data using a modified MMFT or a Kalman Filter Track Fuser will be compared.Phase 2 will integrate several of the above algorithms into the existing DADS processor and validate them against past DADS data. An alternative processor approach will also be implemented and tested. The in situ fused processor (MAD/ELFE/Acoustics) results of the proposed effort will directly integrate into the Navy's shallow water distributed sensor program DADS. MAD, in particular, has been identified as a necessary technology for the Navy'sshallow water ASW program (SWALAS). The primary customers for advanced in situ distributed barrier systems are the U.S. Navy and our allies. DTI will team with a sensor partner for commercial production of the system.