Dual Mode (MWIR AND LADAR) Seeker for Missile Defense

摘要

This paper identifies the key weapon system requirements of a dual mode seeker solution that performs mission critical target discrimination, tracking and aimpoint selection during stressing conditions. System level trades made to integrate ladar into a current generation MD seeker are summarized. Proof of concept hardware was developed to both demonstrate feasibility and collect field data on simulated threats and decoys. The packaging, thermal and bore sight of separate focal planes are addressed. Operationally the seeker is cued by ground based radar to the location and direction of the threat cloud (threats and non-threats). The IR seeker tracks these objects (when separated) and provides a prioritized location map for the ladar. The ladar is used to sequentially and periodically interrogate these objects to separated CSO's and extract micro-dynamic information used for discrimination. The paper details why a Geiger mode flash ladar was selected for this application and how its output is used in discrimination. Dual mode images of threat and decoy objects are presented at various signal levels and resolutions to simulate a typical engagement timeline. This dual mode seeker will be used to gather captive carry signature data on near future MD tests.