The Argentine Army has been operating the APS-94F SLAR systems, on board the venerable OV-1D MOHAWK aircraft, since 1996. These systems were received from the U.S. Government through the FMS program. One major handicap of the system is due to the now obsolete imagery recording subsystem, which includes complex optical, thermal and electro-mechanical obsolete processes and components, that account for most of the degradations and distortions in the images obtained (not to mention the fact that images are recorded on a 9.5-inch silver halide film media, which has to be kept at -17 degree(s)C and has to be brought to thermal equilibrium with the environment eight hours before the mission). An integral digital capture, processing and recording subsystem was developed at CITEFA (Instituto de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas de las Fuerzas Armadas) to replace the old analog RO-495/U recorder, as an upgrade to this very robust and proven imaging radar system The subsystem developed includes three custom designed ISA boards: (1) Radar video and aircraft attitude signal conditioning board, (2) Microprocessor controlled two- channel high speed digitizing board and (3) Integrated 12- channel GPS OEM board. The operator's software interface is a PC based GUI C++ application, including radar imagery forming and processing algorithms, slant range to ground range conversion, digitally controlled image gain, bias and contrast adjustments, image registration (GPS), image file disk recording and retrieval functions, real time mensuration and MTI/FTI (moving target indication/fixed target indication) image correlation. The system also provides for the added capability to send compressed still radar images in NRT (near real time) to a ground receiving station through a secure data link. Due to serious space limitations inside the OV-1D two-seat cockpit, a military grade ruggedized laptop computer and docking station hardware implementation was selected.

We have developed and successfully flight-tested on 14 different airborne missions the hardware and techniques for routinely conducting valuable astronomical and aeronomical observations from high-performance, two-seater military-type aircraft. The SWUIS-A (Southwest Universal Imaging System- Airborne_ system consists of an image-intensified CCD camera with broad band response from the near-UV to the near IR, high-quality foreoptics, a miniaturized video recorder, and aircraft-to-camera power and telemetry interface with associated camera controls, and associated cables, filters, and other minor equipments. SWUIS-A's suite of high-quality foreoptics gives it selectable, variable focal length/variable field-of-view capabilities. The SWUIS-A camera frames at 60Hz video rates, which is a key requirement for both jitter compensation and high time resolution (useful fro occultation, lightning, and auroral studies). Broadband SWUIS-A image coadds can exceed a limiting magnitude of V=10.5 in<1sec with dark sky conditions. A valuable attribute of SWUIS-A airborne observations is the fact that the astronomer flies with the instrument, thereby providing Space Shuttle-like payload specialist capability to close-the-loop in real-time on the research done on each research mission. Key advantages of the small, high-performance aircraft on which we can fly SWUIS-A include significant cost savings over larger, more conventional airborne platforms, worldwide basing obviating the need for expensive, campaign-style movement of specialized large aircraft and their logistics support teams, and ultimately faster reaction times to transient events. Compared to ground-based instruments, airborne research platforms offer superior atmospheric transmission, the mobility to reach remote and often-times otherwise unreachable locations over the Earth, and virtually- guaranteed good weather for observing the sky. Compared to space-based instruments, airborne platforms typically offer substantial cost advantages and the freedom to fly along nearly any ground-track route for transient event tracking such as occultations and eclipses.

The Federal Aviation Administration is often portrayed as the major impediment to unmanned aerial vehicle expansion into civil government and commercial markets. This paper describes one company's record for successfully negotiating the FAA regulations and obtaining authorizations for several types of UAVs to fly commercial reconnaissance missions in civil airspace. The process and criteria for obtaining such authorizations are described. The mishap records of the Pioneer, Predator and Hunter UAVs are examined in regard to their impact on FAA rule making. The paper concludes with a discussion of the true impediments to UAV penetration of commercial markets to date.

The Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Initiative is a project started by Program Executive Officer for Cruise Missiles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (PEO(CU)) in 1998 to coalesce Government needs and desires to utilize Small UAV systems in various applications. The Initiative commissions semi-annual conferences to provide a forum for interchange of ideas and opportunities among the participants. Interest in Small UAV systems has grown as a result of these conferences and the Secretary of the Navy has commissioned a panel to report on a priority of Small UAV missions.

This paper deals with the automatic detection of Objects of Interest (OOIs) in SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) still images. A particular scenario in which a Light-SAR is part of the payload for HALE (High Altitude Long Endurance) platform, named Heliplat, currently under development at the Politecnico di Torino. This unmanned, solar powered aeronautical vehicle is especially tailored for operations at altitudes between 15 and 25 Km with a potential endurance of weeks to months. It could provide a wide range of potential applications within telecommunication and remote sensing: in this paper a particular surveillance application, the reconnaissance over sea regions, has been focused.

HeliNet is a project recently funded by the European Community, within the Fifth Framework Programme of research and technological development, for the design of a network of aerodynamic stratospheric platforms. This network is intended to yield integrated services of broadband communications, as well as optical surveillance and traffic monitoring. Particularly for the surveillance application, an optical payload will be mounted on the platforms, so enabling for the analysis and processing of high resolution digital pictures of the ground. In this paper we deal with image processing algorithms to be run on the images acquired by the on-board optical device, addressing specific features of the HeliNet platforms. In particular, HeliNet application development is constrained by platform requirements on the available payload power and weight, which raise the need for low complexity algorithms; moreover, platform motion and low flight height put the issue of available image resolution in a light potentially more promising with respect to other spaceborne systems. We assess general requirements for image processing applications, including motion and vibration compensation by efficient image registration, image restoration (motion blur compensation) and resolution enhancement (super-resolution). As the limited bandwidth of the transmissive interface strongly constrains the amount of data which can be transmitted to ground, it is desirable that some image processing is performed on board with limited computational complexity. Therefore we describe the requirements of intelligent data compression and processing algorithms to be run on board. These algorithms will be designed according to the HeliNet specific constraints and foreseen applications, having low complexity, and permitting to select and interpret images/data of interest, which are the only ones transmitted to ground, thus fulfilling the available data rate of the communication interface. We show that this approach is successful in trading-off between limited bandwidth and quality of processing results.

The introduction of soft copy exploitation systems for ISR in the UK has resulted in a degree of stovepiping and inflexibility. The UK are developing the JSIES concept for future, which provides a baseline for the range of exploitation systems to aim for. This marker is in terms of a set of common and evolving building blocks in architecture, interfaces that cater for all three services applications, extended support for the Image Analyst, and a variety of modular and scaleable configurations. This paper describes the military drivers and issues behind the JSIES concept, before outlining the main threads of the project with a particular emphasis on the assisted target detection and recognition aspects.

ELOP develops several kinds of advanced electro-optical systems for airborne and spaceborne photography. Unfortunately, there are no available softwares for EO systems performance analysis such as FLIR92, which exists for Infrared systems. ELOP developed a new EO System Performance Analysis Software (EOSPAS) for line-scan, ICCD and TV systems. This software runs under Windows and is interfaced with the PCModwin (Ontar product) atmospheric code allowing direct Modtran runs. The software is user friendly and has a GUI. The EOSPAS can be used for system performance and sensitivity analyses, predictions and optimizations. This model takes into account the EO system components, the platform motion and vibration data, the atmospherics and turbulence conditions and the target characteristics. The system SNR is calculated taken into account the total system MTF, the signals from atmospheric and target characteristic data, the optical transmittance, the detector QE, the electronic noise originated form atmospheric effects and the internal electronic processing. As an output, the Ground Resolved Distance, SNR, Detection, Recognition and Identification Ranges and Noise Equivalent Target Contrast are calculated and displayed. A detailed input-output report can be printed. A batch mode allows the automatic serial running of several parameters and scenarios in one button click, i.e.: one could run performance prediction for several ranges, sun elevation angles or other system parameters. In this paper, the EO model highlights will be presented, and the software features will be described briefly.

The ever increasing sophistication of reconnaissance sensors reinforces the importance of timely, accurate, and equally sophisticated mission planning capabilities. Precision targeting and zero-tolerance for collateral damage and civilian casualties, stress the need for accuracy and timeliness. Recent events have highlighted the need for improvement in current planning procedures and systems. Annotating printed maps takes time and does not allow flexibility for rapid changes required in today's conflicts. We must give aircrew the ability to accurately navigate their aircraft to an area of interest, correctly position the sensor to obtain the required sensor coverage, adapt missions as required, and ensure mission success. The growth in automated mission planning system capability and the expansion of those systems to include dedicated and integrated reconnaissance modules, helps to overcome current limitations. Mission planning systems, coupled with extensive integrated visualization capabilities, allow aircrew to not only plan accurately and quickly, but know precisely when they will locate the target and visualize what the sensor will see during its operation. This paper will provide a broad overview of the current capabilities and describe how automated mission planning and visualization systems can improve and enhance the reconnaissance planning process and contribute to mission success. Think about the ultimate objective of the reconnaissance mission as we consider areas that technology can offer improvement. As we briefly review the fundamentals, remember where and how TAC RECCE systems will be used. Try to put yourself in the mindset of those who are on the front lines, working long hours at increasingly demanding tasks, trying to become familiar with new operating areas and equipment, while striving to minimize risk and optimize mission success. Technical advancements that can reduce the TAC RECCE timeline, simplify operations and instill Warfighter confidence, ultimately improve the desired outcome.

The effect of two new satellite tools on a battlefield information data base is investigated. These tools are the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) and the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS) after the elimination of Selective Availability (SA). These two Twenty-first Century developments will significantly enhance the accessibility of detailed geographical information about battlefield settings around the world. The wide availability of this data, may significantly degrade the battlefield information superiority of our forces.

The integration and management of information from distributed and heterogeneous information producers and providers must be a key foundation of any developing imagery intelligence system. Historically, imagery providers acted as production agencies for imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information. In the future, these imagery producers will be evolving to act more like e-business information brokers. The management of imagery and geospatial information-visible, spectral, infrared (IR), radar, elevation, or other feature and foundation data-is crucial from a quality and content perspective. By 2005, there will be significantly advanced collection systems and a myriad of storage devices. There will also be a number of automated and man-in-the-loop correlation, fusion, and exploitation capabilities. All of these new imagery collection and storage systems will result in a higher volume and greater variety of imagery being disseminated and archived in the future. This paper illustrates the importance-from a collection, storage, exploitation, and dissemination perspective-of the proper selection and implementation of standards-based compression technology for ground station and dissemination/archive networks. It specifically discusses the new compression capabilities featured in JPEG 2000 and how that commercially based technology can provide significant improvements to the overall imagery and geospatial enterprise both from an architectural perspective as well as from a user's prospective.

This paper reviews the use of both linear and matrix LED arrays for data annotation of aerial reconnaissance photographs and their utilization in making large, high resolution, digital images for use in ground stations using COTS equipment.

The human need to see for ones self and to do so remotely, has given rise to video camera applications never before imagined and growing constantly. The instant understanding and verification offered by video lends its applications to every facet of life. Once an entertainment media, video is now ever present in out daily life. The application to the aircraft platform is one aspect of the video camera versatility. Integrating the video camera into the aircraft platform is yet another story. The typical video camera when applied to more standard scene imaging poses less demanding parameters and considerations. This paper explores the video camera as applied to the more complicated airborne environment.

This paper discusses the development of two new state-of- the-art Electro-Optical (E-O) cameras, the CA-295 and the CA-270. These cameras employ wafer-scale visible and IR spectrum focal plane arrays to capture wide field of view digital images simultaneously in both bands. Specifications, performance and the configuration of the cameras is discussed. The current flight demonstration status is given. Representative imagery form previous generation cameras is shown.

The design of infrared hyperspectral sensors for airborne applications demands components level performance trades to achieve system level performance objectives. Limitations to signal-to-noise ratio performance issues that are not present in the visible spectrum are manifest in the infrared region. This paper discusses the typical trade space that the designer must address to develop a long wave infrared hyperspectral sensor for airborne applications.

With the availability of digital cameras, it is possible to completely close the digital chain from image recording to plotting. The key decision regarding the camera design in this case is whether a CCD sensor should be used on a line or a matrix basis. In view of the high geometric accuracy requirements in photogrammetry, Z/I-Imaging focused its development on a digital camera based on a matrix sensor. An essential aspect of this decision was not only the aerial camera system, but the entire photgrammetric process to the finished photo or mapping product was also taken into account. The approach chosen will also maintain the usual central perspective for the new digital images. In addition to this Z/I Imaging will make use of the knowledge gathered during the development of the Digital Camera System, to continue its success in the field of reconnaissance.

Airborne recce systems universally require nonvolatile storage of recorded data. Both present and next generation designs make use of flash memory chips. Flash memory devices are in high volume use for a variety of commercial products ranging form cellular phones to digital cameras. Fortunately, commercial applications call for increasing capacities and fast write times. These parameters are important to the designer of recce recorders. Of economic necessity COTS devices are used in recorders that must perform in military avionics environments. Concurrently, recording rates are moving to $GTR10Gb/S. Thus to capture imagery for even a few minutes of record time, tactically meaningful solid state recorders will require storage capacities in the 100s of Gbytes. Even with memory chip densities at present day 512Mb, such capacities require thousands of chips. The demands on packaging technology are daunting. This paper will consider the differing flash chip architectures, both available and projected and discuss the impact on recorder architecture and performance. Emerging nonvolatile memory technologies, FeRAM AND MIRAM will be reviewed with regard to their potential use in recce recorders.

The control of information is an essential part of operations. Technology allows today a near real time surveillance capacity, over wide areas, due to sensor performances, communication networks. The system presented herein has been developed by Thomson-Csf, under contract with the French MOD to give to the decision makers the right information, in a very short delay, and prepare support information, to help for decision. The SAIM, Mobile Multisensor Image Exploitation Ground System, uses near real time acquisition units, very large data base management, data processing, including fusion and decision aiding tools, and communication networks. It then helps for all the steps of exploitation of data incoming from image sensors, form preparation of the reconnaissance mission to the dissemination of intelligence. The SAIM system is in operations in the French Air Force, and soon in the French Navy and the French Army. Initially defined for the specific use of French Recce sensors, the SAIM is now intended to be widely used for the exploitation of UAV and battle field MTI and SAR surveillance systems.

Pushbroom Electro-Optic sensors have been developed and brought into full production, entering service in year 2000 on RAF Jaguar and Belgian Air Force F-16. The use of fiber- optic gyroscopes, closely coupled to the focal plane electronics, permits correction of all motion effects and provides practical high quality, stereo imagery at high V/H ratios. This paper describes technical features and samples of imagery from a scalable range of sensors incorporating focal lengths from 38mm to 900mm and operating throughout the full flight envelope of modern fighter aircraft.

Keywords: wireless networking, Common Data Link, network centric, unmanned aerial vehicle, ATM, Quality of Service, TCP/IP

In this paper, we describe progress in the development of the NRL Multiple Quantum Well modulating retro-reflector including a description of recent demonstrations of an infrared data link between a small rotary-wing unmanned airborne vehicle and a ground based laser interrogator using the NRL multiple quantum well modulating retro-reflector. Modulating retro-reflector systems couple an optical retro- reflector, such as a corner-cube, and an electro-optic shutter to allow two-way optical communications using a laser, telescope and pointer-tracker on only one platform. The NRL modulating retro-reflector uses a semiconductor based multiple quantum well shutter capable of modulation rates up to 10 Mbps, depending on link characteristics. The technology enable the use of near-infrared frequencies, which is well known to provide covert communications immune to frequency allocation problems. The multiple quantum well modulating retro-reflector has the added advantage of being compact, lightweight, covert, and requires very low power. Up to an order of magnitude in onboard power can be saved using a small array of these devices instead of the Radio Frequency equivalent. In the described demonstration, a Mbps optical link to an unmanned aerial vehicle in flight at a range of 100-200 feet is shown. Near real-time compressed video is also demonstrated at the Mbps level.

The paper presents a design for a High-Density Solid-State Data Recorder (HDR), commercially known as the Tornado 2HD, for use in Reconaissance and High-Speed Sensor Data Acquisition applications. The HDR has the capacity to record data in excess of 5.0Gb/sec sustained via a proprietary Low-Voltage Differential Serial (LVDS) interface and employs an open-architecture VMEbus front end. Allowing data input and archiving through a myriad of standard PMC (PCI Mezznine Card)-based interfaces (SCSI, Fiber-Channel, USB, etc.). A dedicated DCRSi240 interface is also included to allow archiving of data to compatible tape recorders. Solid-state memory is composed of 512Mb EEPROMs arranged as a Removable Memory Unit (RMU) modules of eight memory cards, with each card providing 13.82GB of data storage, for a total of 110.2GB per module. Memory is expandable in .3GB blocks and is theoretically limited only by space and total power requirements of the recorder, since all data and control signals are synchronously redriven between memory cards and RMUs. Erase, read, and write operations for each memory card are controlled autonomously by a single Matrix Array Controller (MAC) FPGA mounted on the card. Recorder user interface is provided by a VME-based dual PowerPC Single-Board Computer (SBC) with control provided via RS-232, DCRSi240, or Ethernet interfaces. The VME front end also provides standard capabilities, such as IRIG-B, Digital I/O, SCSI, and other PMC-based interfaces.

Draping an aerial photograph over known elevation data enables simulated views of the same area from an arbitrary point of view. Doing this in software for a high resolution image could take days. Commercial hardware is available to do this in hours. This paper will present a method for doing it in seconds. Similarly, comparing two images of the same target which have been taken from different altitudes or directions requires one or both images undergo perspective correction. Perspective correction is a computation intensive process made even more complex when the images cover mountainous terrain. This paper will describe hardware that can in real time eliminate the perspective difference between two such images.

Airborne network systems to transmit reconnaissance data from UAVs have been investigated. An airborne experimental system has been developed as test bed to investigate different concepts of the communication between UAV sensor platform, relay platform and ground station. It is based on an Eurocopter BO 105 helicopter and a Dornier DO 228 aircraft. The helicopter is utilized as sensor platform and is equipped with an IR video sensor. It has been demonstrated that video reconnaissance images can be transmitted through a distance of 500 km using the relay platform.