Tactical Consideration for MCM CONOPS Establishment for Unmanned Surface Vehicles [video]

Abstract

Overarching concepts of operations (CONOPS) for future counter mine warfare USV should be established. An end-to-end, overall systems approach for the new USV systems and technology and an overall system architecture are considered for mission effectiveness and cost optimization for future system operations in the MCM warfare. Following the procedures described in DoD and Naval operation code, we try to combine and optimize major steps of the mine warfare procedure and related latest technology achievements in the autonomous vehicle systems. Fundamental considerations for development of CONOPs for future MIW USV systems are: the combined dedicated and organic MCM capabilities must be optimized with a systems view; confirm procedures for selecting the best route and MCM sequences based on ISR databases; assess the mine threat for situational awareness, including future trends; effective C4I ISR operation and information sharing; contingency plan for joint countermine warfare operations forces and ISR assets; technical issues related to communications and interoperability, navigation/position errors for sensor contacts, type of sensor information; develop environmental databases, CAD/CAC algorithms and associated thresholds for detection and classification; an overall MCM systems architecture is needed to ensure that common standards; compatibility with MEDAL should be a given.