Radar Detection and Discrimination of Small Maritime Targets at High Altitude and Grazing Angle Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-006 Topic Title: Radar Detection and Discrimination of Small Maritime Targets at High Altitude and Grazing Angle Proposal No.: N051-006-0399 Firm: Dynamics Technology, Inc. 21311 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 300 Torrance, California 90503-5610 Contact: Scott Grossman Phone: (310) 543-5433 Web Site: www.dynatec.com Abstract: DTI proposes to build a piece of software called UAV-PET (UAV Performance Evaluation Tool) for efficient prediction of small target detection by radar in the maritime environment. We will leverage existing models and codes for state-of-the-art clutter modeling and surface signal and processing algorithms being developed in support of BAMS-UAV procurement. We will seek to make the models efficient for quick results, and will access them through a user-friendly interface. Initially, we will use this tool to efficiently explore a wider range of operational parameters than would be possible by existing computationally intensive codes. With appropriate code modularization, we also will be able to quickly assess the impact of model upgrades as they become available from the ongoing modeling effort in support of BAMS-UAV. In Phase 1, we will demonstrate feasibility by assembling an end-to-end computation for a single combination of platform, radar, environmental, and target parameters and processing scheme. We will plan for the user to be able modify all of these, including MMTI, SAR, and ISAR processing. This software also could be an aid to assess actual performance during BAMS-UAV testing, for operator training, and for characterizing MMA performance. This tool easily could be extended to ASW applications. Benefits: Completion of the Phase 1 work will provide a demonstration of software performance and a plan for full activation of all the model components needed for BAMS-UAV assessment. In addition to direct support to BAMS-UAV, we anticipate that we will allow for additional flexibility in choice of parameters, so that the same tool can be applied to other platforms and situations. For example, this could facilitate an assessment of MMA detection of small surface targets, detection of ASW targets, or even performance of other radars for use in littoral detection in support of the Homeland Defense mission. User-friendly software that accesses state-of-the-art physical detection models could be valuable for training operations or UAV-borne or other radars and for developing CONOPS plans for their most efficient use, and even for providing sensor designers with easy access to advanced maritime clutter models. Return