Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared Communications Modeling

RT&L FOCUS AREA(S): Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning; Network Command, Control and Communications TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems OBJECTIVE: Develop a communications model and effects that supports next generation overhead sensors. DESCRIPTION: This topic seeks to develop a new and innovative simulation communications model and for the next generation of overhead sensor in support of the Missile Defense System (MDS) to defend against hypersonic threats. These communications need to be modeled for accurate Modeling and Simulation (M&S) stimulus. Research is needed to develop visual and performance models of the physical, Media Access Control (MAC), network, transport, and application layers associated with overhead sensor communications. Additionally, research is needed to model the communications architecture and effects to support live virtual constructive simulation architectures and various compositions within an integrated architecture. Technology areas of interest include but are not limited to: modeling approaches, event logging, data collection optimization, and extensible Application Programing Interface (API). PHASE I: Design and develop innovative solutions, methods, and concepts to advance the simulation of overhead sensor communications and effects modeling methods as it pertains to the MDS performance simulations running in a cloud environment. The solutions should capture the key areas for new development, suggest appropriate methods and technologies to minimize the time intensive processes, and incorporate new technologies researched during the design and development. PHASE II: Complete a detailed prototype design incorporating government performance requirements. Coordinate with the government during prototype design and development to ensure that the delivered products will be relevant to an ongoing missile defense architecture and data types and structures. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Scale-up the capability from the prototype utilizing the new technologies developed in Phase II into a mature, full scale, field-able capability. Work with missile defense integrators to integrate the technology into a missile defense system level test-bed and test in a relevant environment. REFERENCES: 1. J. S. Draper et al., "Tracking and identification of distant missiles by remote sounding," 1999 IEEE Aerospace Conference. Proceedings (Cat. No.99TH8403), Snowmass at Aspen, CO, USA, 1999, pp. 333-341 vol.4, doi: 10.1109/AERO.1999.792101. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/792101 ; 2. https://missiledefenseadvocacy.org/defense-systems/hypersonic-and-ballistic-tracking-space-sensor-hbtss/