Report on TNT 05-4 atmospheric effects support

Abstract

The purpose of the atmospheric effects support efforts during Tactical Network Topology (TNT) 05-4 project was to provide environmental situational awareness in a battlefield simulation. In particular, we quantified the effects of the atmosphere on radar and visual detection ranges. In an actual battlefield situation, this information would be used by forces in the field and command centers to assess the situational awareness capabilities of both friendly and enemy forces. This report discusses the efforts and accomplishments that were made to achieve this goal. All of the planned measurements, data transmission systems, real-time modeling and displays operated successfully for both of the TNT05-4 phases. The optical model predictions were significantly better than the previous TNT project. This is not surprising for the optical range predictions because modifications were made to the model based on the previous comparison results. The radar range predictions were also more accurate, even though the same models were used. The real time atmospheric effects guidance provided during TNT05-04 were accurate and valuable products suitable for use in special forces operations. p. i.