Large Area Coverage Search-while-Track and Engage (LACOSTE)
Abstract
(U) The Large Area Coverage Search-while-Track and Engage (LACOSTE) program enables a persistent, tactical-grade ground moving target indicator (GMTI) capability in dense urban areas. Wide-area continuous tracking of moving vehicles requires very small coverage gaps, small resolution cells, and target separation and identification features. The ideal sensor has the area coverage rates of GMTI radar and the resolution/identification capabilities of an electro-optical infrared system. The LACOSTE program will provide wide area surveillance, simultaneous tracking, and target engagement with electro-optical and infrared sensors for tactical GMTI operations. The program is developing a sensor with a very wide field of regard (90 degree cone angle), and a wide instantaneous field of view (FOV) that is rapidly scanned in a search-while-track mode, tracking up to 10,000 targets in an urban area. Additionally, the LACOSTE sensor will provide next-generation precision tracking to enable engagement on a large number of (approximately 100) targets in dense urban areas within that same field of regard with minimal penalty on the search-mode area coverage rate. The program is also developing a rapid “zoom” capability for target identification that enables feature-aided tracking through dense target environments, plus sufficient target identification for separating like-targets when back-tracking a particular target via the historical track data. The LACOSTE technology is planned for transition to the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army at the conclusion of the program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Source ID
- 0d50c8da66041302f3a620b46761978e
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- Root: SENSOR TECHNOLOGY