Imaging and Targeting Support

Abstract

Imaging and Targeting Support (I&TS) develops, matures, and proves next generation sensor capabilities. It provides a key linkage between government and industry research labs by fielding DoD GEOINT tools with the flexibility to adapt each development cycle to the evolving mission set and threat situation. I&TS supports DAF requirements using an annual cycle approach for continuous innovation that is prioritized by the GEOINT Capabilities Working Group (GCWG). I&TS program funds are distributed to projects based on the development priorities established by the USAF GCWG, which is chartered to guide the I&TS capability investment. When required, the USAF may move funds between I&TS projects, developing the highest priority projects in response to urgent (e.g., JUON) and emerging (e.g., JEON) warfighter needs. Adversary targets are aggressively increasing in both scale and complexity. Airborne GEOINT capabilities are complementary to spaceborne data collection due to their traceability and the contested nature of overhead environments. I&TS implements an annual process to identify focus areas that accelerates critical sensing technology, governed by the GCWG, which represents sponsors, acquirers, and warfighters. Advancements focus on: Electro-optics (EO), Infrared (IR), Radar/Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Hyperspectral Imagery (HSI), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), acoustics, geolocation accuracy, and multi-INT collection. In addition to these modalities, this program also incorporates associated reductions in the find, fix, and track kill chain as well as reductions in Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWAP-C). Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are among techniques employed to expedite the kill chain. Sensing enhancements include but are not limited to: Radar: • Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR)/Maritime Modes • Air to Air modes • Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) • Bi-statics • Dismount detection • Polarimetric Imaging • Foliage Penetration (FOPEN) HSI: • Spectral Identification Multi-INT Collection: • Autonomous Collaborative Platforms • Sensor orchestration, queuing, and data fusion Expedite the Kill Chain: • Automatic Targeting Recognition (ATR) algorithms • Near Real Time/On-Edge Targeting and dissemination This program uses modular and open system hardware and software approaches to accelerate integration efforts and facilitate transition. This includes AgilePod, Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA), Open Mission System (OMS), Common Open Architecture Radar Program (COARPS), Kubernetes (K8s), and common interfaces. This program element may include necessary civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability. The use of such programs funds would be in addition to the civilian pay expenses budgeted in program element 0605827F, 0605828F, 0605829F, 0605831F, 0605832F, 0605833F, 0605898F, 0606398F. In FY23 $0.0M was expended for civilian pay expenses in this program element, and in FY24 $0.0M is forecasted for civilian pay expenses in this program element.”

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2025
Source ID
644818_0604257F_4_3600_PB_2025

Tags

Readers

  • Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
  • Enterprise Information Systems Architecture and Joint Command Capability Interoperability Support.
  • Sensor Fusion and Tracking Systems.

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML
  • AI & ML - DoD AI Strategy

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