Harpoon Enhanced Target Selectivity Algorithm (HETSA) Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-131 Topic Title: Harpoon Enhanced Target Selectivity Algorithm (HETSA) Proposal No.: N102-131-1002 Firm: Propagation Research Associates 1275 Kennestone Circle Suite 100 Marietta, Georgia 30066-6032 Contact: E. Holder Phone: (678) 384-3402 Web Site: http://pra-corp.com/ Abstract: Propagation Research Associates, Inc., (PRA) teamed with The Boeing Company Naval Weapons Systems (NWS) group proposes to develop the Harpoon Enhanced Target Selectivity Algorithm (HETSA) to optimize target selection in a Harpoon system using a track-while-scan radar. In particular, PRA will leverage its experience in an M-on-N algorithm developed for the U.S. Army under previous SBIR contracts to support interceptor-target assignment in multiple target environments. HETSA will be based upon a heuristic metric where target selection is accomplished to optimize mission success. The algorithm will assign a weighting to the target based upon its assessed value, the number of other missiles in the scene addressing the target, the risk associated with not engaging the target and other missile parameters. PRA will modify its existing M-on-N algorithm for optimized initial target selection for the Harpoon missile system and will adapt the algorithm for changing target priorities and missile engagement parameters. The HETSA approach will provide an autonomous target engagement capability that combines both fire-and-forget with the high-probability of kill of shoot-look-shoot during multiple simultaneous engagements (MSE). PRA plans to team with Boeing in Phase II to implement HETSA into a simulator or simulation in order to demonstrate its performance. Benefits: The problem of optimal target engagement and weapon assignment continues to be an issue for current missile operations. The successful completion of Phase I will result in an autonomous target selectivity algorithm using an operations research optimization approach. The optimization approach applied to HETSA can be extended and modified for other target engagement applications such as air-to-air and ground-to-air engagements. PRA has already applied a similar approach to force protection against rockets, artillery, and mortars, A general theory of autonomous selectivity algorithms can be evolved from the successful completion of Phase I for applications that not only include missile engagements but also UAV operations and robotics. The algorithm can also be applied to asset defense in a multiple engagement scenario with many incoming threats for optimum assignment and engagement of targets such as a swarm of small boats attacking a ship or a swarm of low cost rockets attacking a high valued asset. Other anticipated benefits are in resource allocation for first responders, disaster planning, police chases, etc. In Phase II, PRA plans to develop a processor that is focused toward enhancing target selectivity for autonomous weapon systems. The processing algorithms will need to be numerically efficient for real-time operations and PRA will develop near optimal algorithms that are capable of achieving fast computation. This technology will enable the system to optimize its target selection based upon target valuation and weapon resources such as fuel, divert, and dynamic parameters in a realistic target environment. For commercial application, the processor and processing can be implemented into existing Harpoon missiles and modified to accommodate other fielded missiles. Return