Improved Detection, Localization, and Classification of Torpedoes Navy SBIR FY2013.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2013.1 Topic No.: N131-047 Topic Title: Improved Detection, Localization, and Classification of Torpedoes Proposal No.: N131-047-0428 Firm: Adaptive Methods, Inc 5860 Trinity Parkway Suite 200 Centreville, Virginia 20120 Contact: Charles Gray Phone: (703) 968-8040 Web Site: www.adaptivemethods.com Abstract: Torpedoes are a lethal threat to surface ships, and the ability to detect them remains a ship-safety priority. Current torpedo-detection algorithms are effective against certain models, but evolving torpedo propulsion systems and enemy tactics constantly chip at away at the present defense capability. This proposal will demonstrate opportunities to use the hull-mounted sensor to significantly close that gap by increasing the probability of detecting torpedoes and reducing false torpedo alerts. Work will be focused on developing improvements across three areas of the torpedo-detection chain: beamforming, detection, and classification. 1. Utilize extended bandwidth and other improvements to the hull-array adaptive beamformer (ABF) to better detect both kinematic and acoustic-signature torpedo characteristics 2. Develop a kinematic feature-detector algorithm capable of detecting various torpedo motion patterns (for example, wake-homing torpedoes) with the hull array 3. Develop a classifier that incorporates data from the hull kinematic and acoustic-feature detectors, as well as any other available sensors, to determine whether a contact has weapon-like characteristics Other benefits include reduced development time and costs by reducing the need to retune the torpedo classifier when threat torpedo characteristics change. Benefits: The primary market for improved torpedo detection, classification, and localization technology is the U.S. Navy. The Navy will benefit from this technology through improved torpedo detection on the hull-array sensor, especially in littoral areas, high-speed maneuvers, or when the towed array sensor is not available. This technology will also lead to reduced false torpedo alerts and improved operator confidence in the sonar system. The initial focus on wake-homing detection will likely benefit the Navy surface community most, however, it is anticipated that many other array systems should be able to leverage all or some of this technology. Target US Navy systems are the tactical surface ship sonar processing systems for the AN/SQS-53C, AN/SQS-56 and AN/SQS-60 hull arrays, including A(V)15 and DDG-1000 platforms. There is also the potential to transfer technology to Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) and the submarine community. The secondary market consists of other government agencies, for example, the U.S. Coast Guard, to detect fast-running boats in drug interdiction efforts, and also companies that operate high-value commercial sea vessels and are interested in identifying contacts or threats that can be profiled via kinematics. For commercial applications, the SBIR technology must be integrated into a more complete acoustic sensor processing package that includes the sensor interface, post-processing and display. In this case, our opportunity for additional sales lies in a partnership with the acoustic sensor manufacturer. Our forecast focuses on the US Navy market as the most likely source of initial investment and sales. Our plan includes Phase 2 SBIR contract award at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2013 and readiness to perform initial transition the SBIR technology to Navy towed array sonar operational software baselines in late 2014. Sales to the commercial market will be required to realize the full new business potential of this SBIR as indicated in the final three years of this schedule. Return