Remote Sensing Support for the Target Acquisition Weapons Software (TAWS)

摘要

The Target Acquisition Weapons Software (TAWS) is a strike warfare tactical decision aid. TAWS was originally developed by the U.S. Air Force, but has been significantly upgraded and adapted to meet Army, Navy, and Coast Guard applications. Because of the new modules and enhancements, TAWS needs to be validated for accuracy. This presentation discusses the remote sensing methods used to validate TAWS operation over the marine environment. Zero-range target-background radiance contrasts as viewed along a slant path through the atmosphere are inferred using two different methods. The techniques involve making measurements at varying distances from a target with a calibrated imaging system. The data are extracted from the calibrated images and plotted with an exponential least squares curve fit. Zero-range target-background contrast, transmittance, and detection range can be derived from the resulting equation. A second method for determining the zero-range target-background contrast involves analysis of a single image and then correcting the data for the atmospheric influence using the MODTRAN code. The results, advantages and possible limitations of these techniques are discussed. Also, discussed is the possibility for future improvements to TAWS by replacing some burdensome model calculations with direct inputs from remote sensing and pre-calculated online atmospheric products.