The application of forward deployed netted sensors for long range counter battery operations

摘要

Counter battery operations have traditionally relied upon weapon locating radar and long range acoustic detection to locate hostile systems, friendly artillery fire is then used to engage the enemy. At short ranges the timelines are such that this can be achieved, however at longer ranges with extended flight times and reduced out of action times due to the 'shoot and scoot' tactics of enemy systems, this process is not effective. This capability can be regained with forward deployed sensors which detect and track the enemy indirect fire systems both during and after firing. This paper explains how netted sensors working co-operatively can solve the system level problems of long range counter battery operations, to ensure that the munition engages the target. Results show that low cost sensors placed close to areas of interest can locate artillery targets with accuracies exceeding current more expensive detection systems. Once the target has been located and identified it may be tracked using the same sensor network. Updating the munition with these details will ensure successful engagement. Results are shown demonstrating the location capability of a low cost netted sensor system against rockets and shells.