Simulation Environment in Support of Non-Cooperative Target Recognition (NCTR) Algorithm Development

"Development of a simulation environment concept for stimulation of developmental Non-Cooperative Target Recognition (NCTR) algorithms is proposed. The proposed concept is based on a distributed architecture simulation, interconnected via a LAN usingstandard network protocols. This simulation is envisioned to initially include a 3-degree of motion model of a surface surveillance platform equipped with a modern volume search radar, a multi-function radar and IRST. The simulation will also include adatabase of menu selectable target signatures that model an array of friendly, hostile, and neutral air and space borne targets, with a capability to add surface targets if desired. Target characteristics include all aspect signature profiles with nominalvalue ranges for measurable features and attributes consistent with the modeled sensors capabilities. Also included will be a propagation environment phenomenology model with a database of attenuation and degradation effects of weather, multi-path, seastate and scenario induced effects such as smoke and dust. The simulation scenario will be overlaid on menu selectable DMA maps using a WGS-84 based reference grid over an elliptical earth profile. Surveillance platform and 3DOF target maneuver and motionprofiles will be scenario programmable based on selectable waypoint navigation, altitude and velocity profiles. The proposed simulation will provide a means to reliable evaluation of NCTR algori