Navy Integrates Unmanned Vehicles With Weapon Systems



by Scott Kesselman



Earlier this week, Navy engineers at Dahlgren, Virginia integrated weapon systems with unmanned vehicles for targeting acquisition and reengagement data.



During the demonstration they employed information from unmanned ground vehicles and a ScanEagle unmanned aerial system that was relayed to an MK160 weapon system operator to engage fictitious threats on the Potomac River Test Range.



“This is a major first step in demonstrating an integrated surface warfare capability utilizing unmanned vehicles in support of the key engagement functions of the plan, detect, control, engage and assess,” says Neil Baron, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division scientist.



The Navy used a technology called Visual Automated Scoring System to instantly update and correct gun targeting.



“ScanEagle has been deployed on guided missile destroyers for years to provide persistent eletro-optical and infrared surveillance,” says Marc Williams, engagement systems deputy commander. “It has been used for naval surface fire support spotting to walk gun rounds onto an enemy target, but not in an automated fashion like in this experiment.”



This kind of testing seeks to bridge a gap in interoperability between complex systems called the interstitial space and can improve targeting capabilities, according to a Navy press release. 



“The ability to send a small, persistent unmanned system down range in hostile territory for real-time gun or missile engagement spotting and targeting is needed by warships,” says Williams.