Localization and Navigation

Wireless sensor, communication and information networks, modern radio technology, as well as radio navigation for mobile network platforms, form the backbone of network-enabled operation control systems (NetOpFü). On one hand, therefore, it must be ensured that our own networks and platforms are functional, possibly through the use of jamming-resistant navigation equipment. On the other hand, opponent network nodes are also an object of reconnaissance, i.e. to locate them precisely and to track them over the time. The objective is localization of an opponent’s network-enabled operation control system as well as reinforcement of our own NetOpFü abilities and techniques by using intelligent signal processing and sensor data fusion techniques. With regard to security applications, the addressed aspects possess a special importance not only for the armed forces, but also for modern economic life.

Important information for reconnaissance of information networks is obtained by detection of the end net nodes involved. The scientific problems that must therefore be solved arise first from the necessity of covering all possible communication frequencies, a requirement which can only be met with the application of signal processing and broad-band reception techniques (i.e. antennas and receivers). Tactical UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) are relevant systems related to certain military applications such as reconnaissance platforms. When using them, the complex reciprocal effect between reconnaissance sensors and slowly-acting platforms must be examined and compensated for. In many cases, emitter localization and tracking must be performed in an urban area in which multipath propagation and the absence of a direct emitter-receiver line-of-sight must be taken into account, which adds to the difficulty. In spite of the challenging urban propagation channel, a precise and high-resolution detection of the overlapping sources should nevertheless be attainable, a task that of course can only be accomplished by optimal fusion of all available information sources.

 

 

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