Optimized Routing of Unmanned Aerial Systems for the Interdiction of Improvised Explosive Devices

Abstract

The paper describes an optimization-based tool for selecting routes that will best employ unmanned aerial systems (UASs) for the purpose of detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or related activity. The routing tool uses preprocessing procedures, an integer linear program, and an IED prediction model to direct UASs to sectors of the area of operations with high IED activity, while accounting for factors such as winds, aircraft de-confliction, and blue force activity. Initial evaluation of the routing tool through field experiments with actual UASs suggests that the tool produces realistic routes, which can be flown in the allocated amount of time, even under windy conditions.