SBIR-STTR Award

This proposal will investigate state-of-the-art sensor and propulsion technology and develop innovative design concepts compatible with the need to define and document a next-generation mobile ASW target simulator for Navy development. The research will explore active acoustic and non-acoustic sensor technology which is compatible with the severe packaging and cost constraints of airborne ASW expendable sensors. This research will also investigate target simulator propulsion technology and vehicle command and control concepts, and conduct hydrodynamic analysis of candidate system concepts.

Benefit:
The development of a multi-sensor mobile ASW target simulator will provide the airborne ASW Navy with a unique and cost effective tool to conduct new weapon system evaluations in hostile littoral environments without the need for dedicated USN submarine assets. Such a target simulator can be used in ASW mission training exercises at significant cost savings to the USN. Its use in hostile areas of strong ASW interest precludes the need to expose our forces to potential engagement and yet it will permit the evaluation of new ASW sensor systems in areas of primary mission use.

Keywords:
mobile target emission simulator, mobile target emission simulator, remote command/control, Sonobuoy

The AAI CMAS conceptual Phase I design focused on two primary design features: the feasibility of designing AEER and IEER-type acoustic sources capable of meeting the CMAS mission requirements, and designing both acoustic source and vehicle propulsion modules compatible with A-size sonobuoy packaging constraints. AAI’s Phase II design successfully meets these CMAS requirements. The proposed CMAS design is modular. Broadband and narrow-band acoustic sensor modules have been designed. A modular vehicle propulsion unit has also been designed. These modules are interchangeable either in the “field” or at the “factory”. Significant echo repeater source levels have been achieved within sonobuoy A-size packaging constraints. AAI is very confident that successful demonstration of this design and subsequent transition to an operational system is achievable in a Phase II /Phase III development program

Keywords:
Ematt, Multi-Statics, Uuv, Acoustic, Echo Repeater,