The aftermath of the USS Cole attack has resulted in an emphasis by naval forces worldwide to prevent this type of terrorist attack from ever occurring again. This act of terrorism resulted in not only 19 deaths, but also the loss of a critical war fighting asset for almost one year. Midlantic Security has put together an Integrated Waterside Security System (WSS) to counter a waterborne attack, both surface and subsurface, against seagoing vessels whether military or commercial.
Midlantic Security WSS counters the waterborne threat with a three tier configuration that uses Surface Detection, Sub-surface and Boat Barriers. Early detection of threat is of utmost importance, in that it allows for a timely and appropriate response. Standard commercially available X-band marine navigational radars using specially developed software for Search and Rescue missions provides the following detection ranges in 3 meter waves:
| TARGET |
DISTANCE |
| Surface Swimmers |
2.0 nm |
| Three meter manned rubber boat |
3.0 nm |
| Seven meter RHIB |
6.8 nm |
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Early detection of these surface targets are achieved by rotating the radar array two to three times faster than commercial or military grade navigational radar. The effect of increased rotational speed of the antenna array is a “target” is seen more times during a shorter period of time. The information is then analyzed by using a multi-scan correlation processing technique to reduce or eliminate “sea clutter” and detect targets.
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The underwater swimmer threat is negated by the use of diver detection sonar. The swimmer detection sonar has been designed to provide 360 degree coverage with a detection range of 1,000 meters. The sonar has a software algorithm that includes auto-detect and tracking capability for ease of use.
Both the radar and sonar data are integrated into a command and control system utilizing a single display. The protection zones can easily be defined and customized to meet user requirements or specific locations. Based upon the user defined detection zones, the command and control system is then able to automatically alarm and track both surface and sub-surface targets that violate those areas. After a surface target is detected, it can then be assessed by automatically cued commercially available CCTV and thermal imagers so that the appropriate response can be taken.
Waterside/Port Security System
- Integration of Multiple Radars and Sonars
- a maximum of 8 radars and 16 sonars can be integrated into one system.
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- Surface Vessel Detection
- Full Electronic Multi-Radar/Full Function Remote Interswitching
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- 360 Degree Swimmer Detection
- Motion compensation
- Not affected by sea-state
- Complete 360 degree scan: ~ 4.0 seconds
- Up to 16 heads can be managed by a single processor
- Automatic detection, tracking, and classification at ~ 1,000 meters
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- Single Operator
- ease of use, low level training, minimal operator intervention.
- Single Graphical Display
- radar and sonar data are displayed on a single nautical chart overlay.
- User Defined Detection Zones
- user can establish specific protection zone(s).
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- Integrated Automated Detection and Tracking Algorithm
- automatic detection and tracking for surface and subsurface targets.
- Automatic Camera Assignment
- operator can pre-select camera(s) to automatically track a target entering the protected area.
- Full Event Digital Recording
- simultaneous playback of radar, sonar, and video.
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