Closed-loop infrared countermeasure system using a high frame rate infrared receiver with nulling sequence

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. A nulling or blanking signal may be used during generation of the laser beam to improve reception of the active signature.

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 generates a laser beam to illuminate the missile and which provides variable imaging rates to detect, jam and divert an incoming infrared missile, wherein the system is enhanced by nulling the infrared receiver during generation of the laser beam.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...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a closed-loop infrared countermeasures system using a high frame rate infrared receiver with nulling sequence. The system includes a countermeasure processor, track processor, pointer, laser, and infrared receiver. The countermeasure processor analyzes characteristics of a detected missile and generates a trajectory signal. The track processor receives the trajectory signal and generates a pointer trajectory signal. The pointer receives the pointer trajectory signal and positions a laser and infrared receiver. The infrared receiver has a single focal plane array that combines the functions of a tracking camera and a laser receiver. The countermeasure processor generates an initiation signal and a blanking signal. The laser generates a periodic pulsed signal with a laser pulse and a hold-off time. The infrared receiver receives the blanking signal and initiates a hold-off time prior to turning on. The counter-measures processor generates a jam code for inclusion with the laser pulse to divert the missile's trajectory. The technical effect of the invention is to provide an efficient and effective system for detecting and diverting the trajectory of a 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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