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Planning & Execution

The Role of UAS and Manned ISR Assets in the Modern Battlefield

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and manned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms are critical tools for modern military operations. Their ability to find, fix, track, target, engage, and assess (F2T2EA) enables rapid decision-making and precise targeting, ensuring mission success while minimizing collateral damage. These platforms rely on an array of advanced sensor technologies to collect actionable intelligence across multiple domains. Below, we explore key sensors utilized on the battlefield and their real-world applications.

Key Sensor Technologies

1. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

SAR uses radar waves to create high-resolution, two-dimensional images of the ground, regardless of weather or lighting conditions. SAR is particularly effective for detecting and identifying fixed or semi-fixed structures, terrain mapping, and spotting changes in the environment over time.

Example: SAR is deployed on platforms like the MQ-9 Reaper and RQ-4 Global Hawk, allowing operators to identify enemy infrastructure hidden by camouflage or adverse weather.

2. Moving Target Indicator (MTI)

MTI sensors detect and track moving objects, such as vehicles or personnel, by distinguishing them from stationary background elements. This technology is essential for monitoring dynamic battlefields and identifying potential threats in real time.

Example: JSTARS (E-8C) aircraft equipped with MTI sensors provide wide-area surveillance and tracking of vehicle convoys in hostile territories.

3. Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) and Electro-Optics (EO)

FLIR detects heat signatures emitted by objects, while EO systems capture high-resolution visual imagery. Together, these sensors excel in day and night operations, enabling operators to identify targets based on thermal contrast and visual cues.

Example: FLIR and EO sensors mounted on the AH-64 Apache helicopter provide close-range reconnaissance and target acquisition during close air support missions.

4. Hyperspectral Imaging

Hyperspectral sensors capture data across a wide range of wavelengths, enabling the detection of specific materials or substances that may not be visible in standard optical imagery. This capability is crucial for identifying concealed threats, such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or chemical agents.

Example: Hyperspectral imaging on UAS platforms like the Predator is used to detect disturbed soil indicative of buried IEDs.

5. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)

LiDAR emits laser pulses to create highly detailed three-dimensional maps of terrain and structures. It is invaluable for terrain analysis, obstacle avoidance, and detecting changes in topography.

Example: LiDAR-equipped platforms like the Army’s Shadow UAS are used for mission planning and route reconnaissance in complex environments.

6. Multi-Tenant Camera Arrays (e.g., Gorgon Stare)

These systems consist of multiple camera arrays that provide wide-area, persistent surveillance over large areas. They allow operators to monitor multiple locations simultaneously, track movements, and establish patterns of life.

Example: Gorgon Stare, deployed on MQ-9 Reaper drones, has been used extensively in counterterrorism operations to surveil urban environments and track insurgent movements.

The F2T2EA Workflow

Find

Sensors like SAR, MTI, and FLIR/EO help locate potential targets by providing high-resolution imagery and identifying movement in the operational area.

Fix

Once a target is detected, platforms use a combination of sensors (e.g., EO for visual confirmation and SAR for precise coordinates) to fix its position.

Track

MTI and FLIR sensors maintain continuous tracking of the target to ensure it remains within the engagement window.

Target

By integrating data from multiple sensors, operators can validate the target’s identity and prepare for engagement. Hyperspectral and LiDAR sensors further confirm details about the target’s environment.

Engage

Manned or unmanned platforms execute precision strikes using laser-guided munitions, with sensor data ensuring accuracy and minimizing collateral damage.

Assess

Post-strike assessment is conducted using EO, FLIR, and SAR to evaluate mission success and provide insights for future operations.

Conclusion

The integration of advanced sensor technologies on UAS and manned ISR platforms has revolutionized battlefield intelligence and targeting workflows. Systems like SAR, FLIR, and Gorgon Stare exemplify how diverse sensing modalities can be used in synergy to achieve mission objectives. As technology continues to evolve, the capabilities of these platforms will further enhance their effectiveness in multi-domain operations.