As a network node, submarines are capable of receiving, processing, and sharing mission-critical distributed sensor data. In addition, they can serve as deployment platforms for Submarine Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (STUAVs), which can transmit critical information and deploy outboard sensor systems. Acting as a "system administrator" for Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS), the submarine extends its support to Special Operations Forces (SOF) by enabling stealth intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in denied access areas. With long-term, covert stationing capabilities, submarines can conduct non-provocative observation of enemy activities on land through an unattended ground-based sensor system, designed for detection, monitoring, and communication.
This article explores the capabilities required to maximize the performance of unattended ground sensors while minimizing their size. The UGS deployed by STUAVs must be compact, ensuring that it can function as a viable load for the drone and be embedded into the ground, masked during operation, and designed for Low Probability of Detection (LPD) and Low Probability of Interception (LPI). Once deployed, the ability of these sensors to detect, monitor, and communicate provides a new avenue for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and targeting (ISRT).
Figure 1 illustrates the concept of submarine-based time-sensitive target detection and monitoring. The paper describes a network-centric system-level approach for detecting Time-Critical Targets (TCT), such as Scud missile launchers, tanks, and armored personnel carriers. The goal is real-time detection, identification, monitoring, and transmission of information to an accusation center. The submarine tactical UAV sensor system and the unattended ground sensors become key tools for identifying TCTs and providing battlefield damage assessment after engagement.
The detection of time-sensitive targets depends on sensor placement, information transmission to the Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence (C4I) station, and data analysis. A network-centric model treats transmitting and receiving stations as nodes within a combat network, offering advantages like automatic routing of information and uninterrupted system operation even if a node fails. Acoustic, seismic, and magnetic sensors can detect TCTs, and these Measurement and Signal Intelligence (MASINT) systems can be deployed via STUAVs. As a "system administrator," submarines can manage these systems, receive, process, and share critical distributed sensor data during ISRT operations.
All components involved in this TCT detection and monitoring concept are illustrated in Figure 1-1, including the submarine, STUAV, UGS, and unmanned aircraft laser technology. Current technology allows UGS to measure, process, and communicate acoustic, seismic, and magnetic data. These sensors can be combined with low-power circuits, real-time signal processing units, long-life power supplies, and rugged packaging. Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology enables airborne sensor systems to detect, monitor, and transmit data throughout their operational cycle.
In the Intelligent Battlefield Preparation (IPB) phase, STUAV-mounted sensing systems assist in identifying potential threat areas, ensuring continuous intelligence surveillance. Laser technology and other ISR equipment identify locations where STUAVs can deploy UGS. This article discusses TCT detection and monitoring in detail, covering STUAVs as sensor deployment platforms, MASINT UGS for TCT detection, bidirectional communication links, and future recommendations.
Submarines today can launch organic drones to expand their range and monitoring capabilities. These drones can perform ISRT missions, such as laser scanning and deploying MASINT UGS, without risking air superiority. Improvements in technology have enhanced drone voyage, range, survivability, and mission support while keeping costs manageable.
One challenge in submarine-deployed drones is underwater launch. Attack submarines use various systems to deploy different types of loads, but the size of drones may exceed existing launch systems. The Loitering Electronic Warfare Killer (LEWK) is an example of a future submarine-launched drone, featuring inflatable propeller technology and the ability to carry 200 pounds of payload for multiple missions. LEWK is a recyclable, interference-capable platform suitable for all threat environments.
Communication between the drone and submarine occurs via RF links, allowing mission plan updates and status reports. Autonomous drones reduce the need for constant communication, lowering the submarine's vulnerability. Photoacoustic methods also enable covert communication, using lasers to send sound signals underwater.
Laser technology not only detects surface vibrations but also penetrates solid surfaces to detect buried facilities or military movements. It can passively monitor military activity by detecting human body vibrations. These techniques support port defense and the detection of forces moving toward threatened areas.
When a drone completes its mission, it can return to the ocean or land near a carrier. MASINT UGS, integrated into the Expeditionary Sensor Grid (ESG), connects small, remote, and inexpensive ISR devices to the network, enabling shared sensor data across the battlespace.
Current technology allows real-time TCT identification using acoustic, seismic, and magnetic sensors, low-power processors, and hidden satellite links. MASINT systems can identify vehicles based on engine type, number of cylinders, and GPS positioning. Acoustic, vibration, and magnetic characteristics are stored as "characteristic vectors" for accurate detection.
Despite weather and terrain effects, sensing systems can detect high-value ground vehicles even in heavy storms. Low-noise power supplies and voltage reductions help minimize noise, improving signal clarity. Once deployed, the command and control processor can initiate subsystem detection and report sensor status.
Advanced sensor processors correlate acoustic and seismic data, transforming it into feature eigenvectors for comparison with vehicle libraries. Unknown targets can be classified and added to the database, improving future detection accuracy.
With waterproof enclosures and low-power electronics, UGS can operate for up to 12 months. They function in extreme temperatures and conserve battery life until a trigger event occurs. Future improvements may allow initial aircraft classification to avoid unnecessary power consumption.
Due to internal sensor processing, only minimal data is transmitted, ensuring LPD/LPI communication. Embedded anti-jamming and anti-spoofing devices further enhance stealth. Real-time battlefield displays enable submarine commanders to manage systems effectively, integrating sensor data for situational awareness and joint operations.
Submarines play a crucial role as command nodes in ISR and IPB operations. Their ability to remain invisible and maintain depth supports non-provocative operations and two-way communication using low-visibility masts. Transferring sensor data to out-of-zone centers is essential, requiring communication links between UGS, drones, satellites, and submarines.
UGS to drones/satellites use hemispherical antennas for efficient communication. Tactical drones enable short-term data relay, reducing power restrictions. Satellite communications support long-term ISR operations, while optical two-way communication between drones and submarines ensures covert, high-speed data transfer.
Laser technologies allow passive detection of vibrations and active photoacoustic transmissions, enabling communication between aerial and underwater platforms. These systems eliminate the need for special forces to provide communication links, and initial studies confirm their feasibility.
In conclusion, this paper outlines a system-level concept for TCT detection and monitoring. Submarines, as network nodes, can deploy STUAVs and UGS to support SOF and conduct covert ISR missions. The system aims to optimize military equipment deployment, improve response precision, and reduce resource costs. Phased sensor deployment enhances targeting accuracy, supporting battlefield damage assessment and reducing risks for personnel.
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