Advanced Interceptor Infra-Red Search and Track System (IRSTS) for Missile Defense Applications

The Oceanit¡¦s/APL Foveal InfraRed Search and Track (FIRST) prototype is a dual channel cryogenic WFOV optical sensor system. FIRST provides multifaceted support for an airborne IR search and track and uses the unique Multi-target-tracking Optical Sensor-array Technology (MOST) sensor chip, which has been developed at MDA. FIRST supports instantaneous field-of-view up to 90 degrees, with 360 degree surveillance supported with multiple sensor pods. FIRST provides: „« 500 Km detection „« Cueing for other NFOV sensors „« Robust kill assessment „« Special processing for early detection „« Supports the entire missile engagement from initial detection to kill. „« Dual channels for LWIR / MWIR sensing „« Configurable for multiple missions and integration into multiple platforms required to support the BMDS The FIRST System includes provisions for merging radar data to significantly improve cueing accuracy, which will result in more reliable detection and more accurate tracking. The FIRST primary mission is tip-off and cueing for NFOV sensors. Kill assessment is also a primary mission. Additional support roles include special processing modes for potential discrimination metrics for boosting missiles.