Intelligence surveillance reconnaissance “search window”

Abstract

This report was commissioned by Lockheed Martin Corporation in order to develop a predictive model capable of identifying potential enemy ballistic missile launch sites prior to launch. This model will use geospatial data in conjunction with intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets in order to identify likely missile launch sites. The utilization of this model will save time when planning missions and engaging targets. This model will provide the commander with the ability destroy a launch site before it has a chance to fire a missile. Since enemy offensive missiles heavily outnumber the amount of American defensive missiles, this model uses an offensive approach in a field that has historically taken a defensive stance. Destroying enemy launch sites before they can fire ensures the most efficient use of missile assets. The prototype algorithm will be built using a commercial geospatial software tool, ArcGIS, and evaluating open-source data. The prototype will evaluate geographical data in order to focus assets on areas that are conducive to missile launch sites. This algorithm will then be exported to a tactical operating system capable of simulating missile engagements on a global scale and allowing commanders to make informed decisions regarding missile threats. The result of this project will have two parts. The first part will be a model in ArcGIS that will identify potential enemy launch sites based on geographic location and characteristics of the terrain. The second part of this project will be a graphical display that will output all relevant information to the commander. This information will include the coordinates of the possible launch sites, expected missile type, and range of each weapon system.