<title>Multisensor detection and tracking of tactical ballistic missiles using knowledge-based state estimation</title>

Abstract

Westinghouse has developed and demonstrated a system that performs multisensor detection and tracking of tactical ballistic missiles (TBM). Under a USAF High Gear Program, we developed knowledge-based techniques to discriminate TBM targets from ground clutter, air breathing targets, and false alarms. Upon track initiation the optimal estimate of the target's launch point, impact point and instantaneous position was computed by fusing returns from noncollocated multiple sensors. The system also distinguishes different missile types during the boost phase and forms multiple hypotheses to account for measurement and knowledge base uncertainties. This paper outlines the salient features of the knowledge-based processing of the multisensor data.