Science and Technology Improvement in Combat Identification

Customer: Office of Naval Research

Challenge: WBB was asked to help frame, manage and develop an approach to common theater-wide Combat Identification (CID) fusion technology for the Navy as part of a seven year Future Naval Capability program in Missile Defense .

Approach: The project had two focused technology deliveries – to integrate signals intelligence for hostile identity information and to develop a common reasoning algorithm. The first focus of the project integrated Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft and ships into the tactical arena via an automated CID fusion system. The second focus area developed a Common Identification Reasoning Algorithm that utilized evidential reasoning techniques, combining various sources and sensors, to arrive at the correct identity (friend, hostile or neutral). WBB team worked closely with ONR management through out the life of the project from program initiation (1999) until its successful transition to acquisition/procurement programs and fielding (2007). WBB provided support in two areas - first, overall Composite Combat Identification (CCID) project execution, management and systems engineering; and second, science and technology analysis, assessment and software engineering.

Value: CCID was very successful in three measurable events:

Great improvements made to the warfighter combat identification capability in laboratory demonstrations (NAS China Lake EP-3E Lab and Ship Signal Exploitation Equipment Lab in San Diego)
100% success in transitioning the technology out of a research organization into operational ships and aircraft
Creation of an open architecture common reasoning algorithm for combat identification

Fundamental warfighting improvements included rapid and accurate identification and a reduction of fratricide and neutral/collateral damage potential.