Closed-loop infrared countermeasure system using high frame rate infrared receiver

Abstract

A missile tracking and deflection system for protecting a platform includes a missile warning system for detecting the presence of a missile and generating a warning signal. A countermeasure processor receives the warning signal and analyzes characteristics of the missile to prioritize a trajectory signal. A track processor receives the trajectory signal and generates a pointer signal. The system also includes a receiver, which is positioned by a pointer that receives the pointer signal, for receiving a passive and / or active signature of the missile to confirm the presence thereof. The countermeasure processor then directs a laser beam at the missile to determine its operational parameters and receives an active signature from the missile. The receiver delivers the passive and / or active signatures to the countermeasure processor and the track processor, wherein the track processor updates the pointer signal and the countermeasure processor generates a jam code delivered by the laser beam to divert the trajectory of the missile away from the platform.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELDThe present invention herein resides in the art of defense systems for diverting the trajectory of incoming missiles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system which provides simultaneous tracking and identification / classification functions with an infrared receiver having a focal plane array. Specifically, the present invention relates to a system which provides variable imaging rates to detect, jam and divert an incoming infrared missile.BACKGROUND ARTTo protect and defend military platforms, such as ships, aircraft, and ground-based installations, it is known to provide countermeasure systems that detect incoming threats such as enemy aircraft or missiles. Known systems detect incoming threats, such as infrared missiles, and then deploy defensive countermeasures in an attempt to destroy or divert the threat. These systems are referred to as open-loop systems since no immediate determination as to the type of threat or effectiveness of the counter...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Still an additional aspect of the present invention, as set forth above, is to instruct the focal plane array to initiate variable imaging rates, in particular, a first imaging rate is employed to initially acquire and track the incoming threat, a faster second imaging rate is employed to provide a high resolution tracking of the incoming threat and an even faster third imaging rate is employed to obtain operational characteristics of the incoming missile.

Problems solved by technology

These systems are referred to as open-loop systems since no immediate determination as to the type of threat or effectiveness of the countermeasure is readily available.

The cost and size impact of such a configuration to the countermeasure system is prohibitive.

Unfortunately, this approach causes at least a 50% receive loss for both the track sensor and the receiver, plus the cost for adding another cryogenically cooled detector.

Another problem with this approach is that the apertures of the sensor and the receiver may not match which would require a larger overall assembly to accommodate both.

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