Joint interoperability of theater missile defense systems extending the scope of testing

Abstract

Assuring the interoperability of a theater missile defense (TMD) family of systems (FoS) is a challenging problem with many different facets. Under a concept of interoperability that is based on competition among interfacing systems for reporting responsibility on tracks, the least performing system can degrade the performance of the entire family. A program of interoperability testing must therefore emphasize operability in addition to conformance to message standards. This report examines interoperability testing of a TMD FoS from perspectives ranging from the statistical validity of tracking algorithms to the integrity of track messaging. Recommendations for extending interoperability testing in these areas are made. Testing should be conducted in a manner that focuses attention on deficiencies in both the concept and operations of a TMD FoS. In particular, interoperability testing should be structured to demonstrate the effects of system-level registration errors (bias) on FoS operations. A three-tiered 'test, registration, re-test' procedure can satisfy this objective with minimal disruption to testing under current (TADIL J) message standards.