Swimming in Sensors Drowning in Data

• The sheer volume of sensor data creates huge challenges in itself; in almost all steps, such as available data link bandwith, data storage, data analysis, and data retrieval (with access restrictions and multi-level authorities)

• The volume of sensor data and the multitude of available sensors and airframes also poses the risk of action paralysis; the difficult call of judgment whether to choose to act on existing information, or to continue to collect intelligence. The challenge here is to provide different levels of an operation with tailored data fit for purpose; for example providing  accurate and unambiguous video data for very time critical decisions on a tactical level.

• The UAS proliferation also support the command paradigm change, where authority to make time critical decisions is pushed down the ranks. The individual dismounted soldier, and/or the group or squad leader, is now for good reasons entrusted with greater decision responsibilities. Providing as many individual soldiers as possible with increased situational awareness through ISR assets becomes a key driver.  From a technology viewpoint, this involves areas such as tailoring and distributing data, and providing clear and good imagery to small and portable viewing devices.

• Sensors now allow us to “see” in spectrums not otherwise possible by the human eye. In addition, we also get to observe in ways not well adapted to human perception; moving fast on high altitude with wide angle observation, suddenly zooming in dramatically to identify objects of interest under vibrations and turbulence. Unfortunately, humans do not have falcon view. In the adaptation of the human perception system, we have developed multi-stage visual signal processing capabilities – but in the area of aerial ISR; they might as well prevent us from finding the critical information, fool us, or simply make us tired and nauseated.

At Imint, we have analyzed these challenges, and we have developed both technologies and products to address them.

* The headline is a quote from Lt Gen David Deptula, Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance at US Air Force