Radar Detection and Tracking of Small Maritime Targets at High Grazing Angles

Radar Detection and Tracking of Small Maritime Targets at High Grazing Angles
Navy SBIR FY2008.3

Sol No.:	Navy SBIR FY2008.3
Topic No.:	N08-205
Topic Title:	Radar Detection and Tracking of Small Maritime Targets at High Grazing Angles
Proposal No.:	N083-205-0036
Firm:	Halberd Match Corp 1230 Parkway Ave Suite 306 Trenton, New Jersey 08628
Contact:	Michael Shutt
Phone:	(609) 882-7000
Web Site:	www.halberdmatch.com
Abstract:	Development of high-grazing-angle radar signal processing techniques that employ a long integration time approach with a pulse agile beam that can be used to reliably detect, identify and discriminate maritime targets. Furthermore, we propose to conduct a proof-of-concept study that demonstrates the feasibility of using radar data coupled with advanced image analysis to detect moving submerged submarines. HMC has developed data processing technologies inherently aimed at facing low quality image challenges. The advanced image analysis method we propose is a customized pattern recognition technique using innovative algorithms and software-based logic. Our advanced approach identifies minute effects that submerged submarines generate on the sea-surface above. This proof-of-concept study will be completed within six months of contract award. Through this effort, HMC offers a new, non-acoustic radio frequency (RF) submarine tracking capability and a high-value operational system to enhance the Navy��s antisubmarine warfare (ASW) capabilities. Additional technologies examined in this proposed project will include advanced image processing of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data and exploitation, automatic target recognition (ATR) and classification. Our proposed effort supports a number of the top-level Naval Research Areas of Interest as non-acoustic ASW sensors and systems, rapid precision ASW targeting technologies and techniques and others
Benefits:	Maritime surface requirements traditionally have involved low grazing angles when searching for small targets, partially submerged such as periscopes or small embarkations and vessels. The primary factor for this situation and operational condition is driven by the fact that the mean sea clutter return decreases dramatically at low grazing angles (e.g. <10-20 degrees grazing) and target radar returns are easily affected by the large clutter signature return. Operating at higher altitudes (i.e. lower grazing angles) significantly enlarge the radar horizon. Coupled with advanced signal processing techniques larger search rates and therefore extended search areas will be possible. The US Navy is actively involved in exploring the feasibility of unmanned aerial vehicle missions for intelligence gathering, theater observation, reconnaissance and search applications. Installing such signal processing capabilities with reliable pattern recognition and target identification capabilities would greatly enhance the effectiveness of such missions. Following the successful proof-of-concept demonstration, we propose a follow-on Phase II effort to design and produce a prototype operational system to be tested by the Navy. HMC and ATK recommend an ASW aerial platform for this prototype test. We estimate that the design, systems integration, and testing of this prototype system will take 18 to 24 months. With an accelerated schedule for program milestones, an initial operational deployment of this system could occur by late FY10 or early FY11. After the Navy has deployed the prototype system on-board an ASW aerial platform, the basic system could be adapted for use on a variety of other aerial or space platforms equipped with compatible types of radars. The advanced algorithms used in the submarine tracking system have the potential for adaptation with other types of radars and sensors in areas such as surface ship protection, maritime security, harbor protection, and land warfare threat assessment. The developed approach and solutions are directly applicable to a number of commercial applications. Thus, an internal HMC project has been developed (Heavy-Pass) to provide a solution to significantly address some of the most frequently deployed acts of terrorism. Thus, terrorists can be identified, tracked, localized, and caught prior to penetration and perpetuation of terrorist acts. This anti-terror system can be implemented in buses, trains, stand-alone buildings as well being set up inside shopping centers, airports, hospitals, theaters, culture centers, restaurants, etc., with the ability to be deployed across entire Geographical areas. Specifically, Heavy-Pass will operate as follows: each previously-approved employee or legal resident will obtain a wrist-located personal ID that consists of a radio frequency device, special sensors, and a biometric verification microchip. This unit becomes the BioID. It is very small, inexpensive, completely unalterable, and contains original software allowing it to recognize whether or not its current wearer is who he or she purports to be. When the ID bearer approaches doors, gates, control arcs, etc., ID scanners set up inside send a radio inquiry defining �friend-or-foe�". If no positive response, in the form of a valid ID code, is returned, an alert signal is instantly emitted, automatically triggering preventative blocking systems. At the same time, utilizing a GPS system, a message containing perpetrator��s location would be instantly sent to authorities. Because the BioID is programmed to only recognize the approved wearer, (and to immediately cease functioning when donned by an unapproved wearer), there is no concern about theft. In order to work, the BioID must be in contact with the skin of the approved user. Even if the approved wearer��s hand is removed from his/her arm, the special sensor will immediately recognize non-alive tissue and BioID will cease emitting an alert signal. Another HMC product RUBICON (Remote Unified Break-In Control) is designed to provide greater container transportation security and dependability, increase in the checkpoint processing speed, simplicity and ease of use, high flexibility, and ability to integrate with existing systems. The RUBICON system: ,� Provides easily recognizable container tampering evidence at critical points during the container transport process ,� Prevents injecting of drugs, weapons, or stowaways into cargo containers laden with legitimate cargos ,� Gives capability to inspect remotely up to 100% containers ,� Dramatically reduces customs checkpoint overloading ,� Highly increases port security These two projects, Heavy Pass and RUBICON will borrow many of the technologies, techniques and procedures from the project proposed in this HMC''''''''s proposal under the DOD SBIR program. They will have direct and immediate applicability to many important civil preparedness and civil anti-terrorism programs throughout federal agencies, state and local governments. As such the anticipated SBIR contract will stimulate and support much needed technological breakthroughs for immediate civilian application and deployment.

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