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This three-year ONR program picks up where Integrated ASW and Common Environmental Picture programs left off: determining methods and processes for bringing the right type, latency, and frequency of environmental data to fleet users when it is needed so that sonar performance predictions, and hence tactical decisions based on those predictions can be improved. The program, in part, will improve geoacoustic inversion processes and methods for collecting and sharing water column sound speed (temperature) data between ASW platforms, or other available sensor systems. This initiative is connected with a Canadian initiative to develop a networked, common undersea picture for Navy ASW platforms. Appropriate results from the ONR Uncertainty DRI and collaborative environmental data sharing technology are being integrated and shared with Canada.
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Specifically, to support this project APL-UW is:
- Managing and developing the concept of operation, architecture, and metrics for the acquisition, assimilation and application of environmental data used in sensor performance prediction engines;
- Developing recommendations for improving networkcentric sharing of environmental data between ASW units;
- Determining the technical feasibility of providing fleet sensor performance prediction systems, such as STDA (Sonar Tactical Decision Aid) and TAMDA, with sufficient, accurate, low-latency data that can produce more accurate predictions than using current capabilities;
- Developing new operational guidelines, as appropriate, to accommodate bringing sensor performance prediction information directly to the sensor operator in support of on-going mission re-planning and planning for the next mission;
- Evaluating the interdependent sensitivity of water column sound speed and geo-acoustic characteristics of the bottom inputs to acoustic sensor performance predictions and recommending changes in data acquisition strategies;
- Providing support to projects aimed at improving "through-the-sensor" capabilities to estimate critical environmental information for acoustic and non-acoustic sensors.
- Collaborating with Canada to improve sharing of acquired environmental data across the Battle Group for tactical use;
- Integrating component technologies with existing and emerging systems on air, surface, and submarine platforms, e.g., APB-A Sonar Tactical Decision Aid (STDA), TAMDA, Common Undersea Picture (CUP), and upgrades to NITES 2000.
- Collecting data to analyze the effectiveness of integrated technology and improved processes during SHAREM, LWAD (Littoral Warfare Advanced Development), and other acquisition system sea tests, and to demonstrate resultant overall improvements in ASW performance.
- Using the metrics developed above to measure the value of this project.
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