Advanced Above Water Sensors

The Advanced Above Water Sensors program, part of the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts, aims to enhance naval capabilities with advanced sensor technologies. A key component is the Multi-Mission Signal Processor (MMSP), which provides simultaneous Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) and Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) capabilities for DDG 51 class ships under the Aegis Modernization Program. This involves modifying SPY-1D transmitters for dual beam operations, improving reaction times and stability across various waveforms, and enhancing performance in challenging environments like littoral zones and electronic attack scenarios.

The Shipboard Passive Electro-Optical Infrared (SPEIR) Development program is another critical element within this initiative. SPEIR Block I addresses near-term capability requirements by offering a 360-degree EO/IR Electronic Support capability for surface ships. This system enhances situational awareness and threat detection against Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles, unmanned aircraft systems, and fast attack crafts. The program leverages technology from the Office of Naval Research's CESARS effort and includes risk reduction initiatives such as modeling and simulation, sensor protection countermeasures, and combat system integration.

Improved Capabilities for SPY-1 Radar focus on enhancing reliability, maintainability, and availability through solid-state technology insertions. These improvements aim to reduce maintenance costs while supporting AAW and BMD missions. Developments include Transmitter Noise Cancellation to counter low radar cross-section threats and Side Lobe Blanking for mixed electronic attack environments. Additionally, it supports integrating advanced calibration experiments into radar baselines to address evolving electronic attack threats.

These programs collectively advance naval sensor technologies by integrating modernized systems into existing platforms, ensuring enhanced operational capabilities across various maritime missions. The emphasis on open architecture systems allows for future upgrades and adaptability to emerging threats, maintaining technological superiority in above-water sensor capabilities for the Navy.