Correlation of ship position reports gathered by simulated ocean surveillance satellites

Abstract

Two models for the correlation of ship position reports obtained and relayed by ocean surveillance satellites are described. The models are intended to process position reports of ships detected by satellites and correlate this data to provide intelligence concerning the position, course, and speed of ships traversing the ocean surface. A probabilistic model assigns position report correlations by reliance on probabil­ities assigned to computed ship speed and to changes of course and speed. A reliability factor is determined for each track. The deterministic model avoids explicit use of probability theory and correlates position reports on the basis of proximity of the position report to a position predicted by track extension. Evaluation of the models by means of computer simulations is described. Results of the evaluation are discussed and recommendations are made concerning areas for further investigation. The computer programs are included in the Appendicies.