Sensor Technology

The PE 0603767E: SENSOR TECHNOLOGY program, managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is focused on advanced technology development to enhance sensor capabilities for military applications. The overarching goal is to improve the accuracy, timeliness, and resilience of surveillance and targeting systems, thereby supporting battlefield awareness, strike capability, and battle damage assessment. This program element is structured to address the evolving needs of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, particularly in environments where adversaries employ denial and deception tactics.

SEN-01: SURVEILLANCE AND COUNTERMEASURES TECHNOLOGY is a key line item within this program. Its objective is to exploit advances in multispectral target phenomenology, signal processing, low-power high-performance computing, and microelectronics to develop sophisticated surveillance and targeting systems. The project funds several initiatives, including efforts to create algorithms for optimizing non-kinetic countermeasures and resource management in extended campaigns. Another initiative seeks to improve ionospheric characterization using satellites and ground equipment, enhancing the performance of HF-band radars and communications. Additional work focuses on training AI algorithms to synthesize artificial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images, which are used to improve Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) capabilities.

SEN-02: SENSORS AND PROCESSING SYSTEMS develops and demonstrates advanced sensor and processing technologies for ISR missions. The project is driven by four primary needs: providing day-night ISR capabilities, countering camouflage and deception, detecting and identifying targets across wide areas in near-real-time, and enabling precise tracking and engagement of ground targets. Key initiatives include the development of distributable nodes for measuring the HF radio environment and creating mission planning tools for wide-area deployment. Other efforts focus on developing algorithms to process imperfect radiography datasets, overcoming challenges such as motion blur and low contrast. Work is also underway to develop manufacturable photocathode materials with high quantum efficiency for large-area and curved geometries, supporting new classes of fast electron devices.

Other notable projects under SEN-02 include leveraging clusters of small SAR satellites to demonstrate advanced image formation and processing algorithms, expanding the utility of commercial satellites for military use. Additional research is advancing laser technologies for future active optical systems, with objectives to increase power and reduce size while maintaining spectral properties for multiple mission applications. Efforts have also developed and tested prototype sensors and automation software for small satellites, supporting automated on-board processing and simplified operator tasking.

SEN-06: SENSOR TECHNOLOGY funds classified DARPA programs that are reported in accordance with Title 10, United States Code, Section 119(a)(1). While specific details are not publicly available, this line item supports classified research and development efforts that contribute to the overall mission of enhancing sensor technology for national defense applications. These projects are expected to transition to the DARPA Advanced Technology Development program element beginning in FY 2026.

The justification for these investments centers on the need for timely and accurate tactical information in future conflicts, where adversaries may attempt to deny or deceive sensor systems. The program leverages recent technological advances to maintain operational surveillance capabilities under challenging conditions, including all-weather environments and clandestine operations. Additionally, the development of countermeasures and advanced sensing techniques is intended to address emerging battlefield threats and ensure the effectiveness of U.S. military operations.