SIRI – At Multi-Domain Battlefield

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One of the challenges of the multi-domain battlefield is the huge amounts of data and a limited number of people to look at it and make critical decisions quickly. 

Traditionally, operators have control sensors and analyzed data much like you’d think they would – by keeping their eyes locked on screens, pressing buttons and using joysticks to move things around. RI&S is using military and commercial advancements in technology to automate those functions. Raytheon Intelligence & Space (RI&S) is using military and commercial advancements in technology to automate those functions. 

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are used to improve the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities of the U.S. and allied armed forces. The approach is to synthesize reams of data into actionable intelligence and accurate targeting information at speed and scale, in high-risk environments.AI/ML is implemented into next-generation ISR capabilities so operators can rapidly make the right decisions in any threat environment.

One of the developments is smart software called Cognitive Aids to Sensor Processing, Exploitation and Response (CASPER), designed to lighten the operator’s workload and use automation to help make decisions faster.

The aids interpret operator requests, then control sensor and data processing functions. They are being integrated into products like the Multi-Spectral Targeting System, which provides visible and infrared intelligence and targeting information for an array of airborne platforms.

According to breakingdefense.com, CASPER allows operators to work above the drudgery of data processing and instead focus on decision making, resulting in exponentially faster threat response. “Much like talking to Alexa or Siri, an operator tells CASPER to scan for fast boats [for example] and prioritize by threat to the carrier,” said Jim Wright, RI&S’ technical director for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Systems. “CASPER then takes control of sensor functions, rapidly identifies which boats are threats based on things like their appearance and behavior over space and time, and provides the operator with the threat list and recommended courses of action. “This enables the operator to focus attention on ensuring recommendations are correct and consistent with policy, making the whole process shorter and safer,” he said.