Search

This report focuses on the mission engineering process for a hybrid force in 2025. Updated tasking from OPNAV N9I emphasized the necessity of focusing on the benefits of using cost-conservative unmanned systems. Specifically, the focus was placed on the near-peer competitor China and the problems that could be expected in an anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) situation in the South China Sea. The Naval Surface Warfare Center mission engineering approach was used to identify specific vignettes for proposed alternative fleet architectures and then analyzed using combat simulation and optimization models. Research on performance characteristics and cost were compiled on current unmanned systems, specifically those in development at a high technology readiness level. Proposed unmanned systems architectures were developed as solutions to the A2/AD problem and proposed vignettes. The unmanned systems architectures were then run through an optimization model to maximize system performance while minimizing cost. The results of the architecture optimization were then input into modeling and simulation. The overall effectiveness of each architecture in each vignette were then compared to find the most effective solution. An analysis of the results was performed to show the expected mission effectiveness and proposed cost of utilizing the proposed solution unmanned architectures. The most effective architectures included search, counter swarm, delivery, and attack systems.

Navigation systems of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are heavily dependent on the availability of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) or other Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Although inertial navigation systems (INS) can provide position and velocity of an aircraft based on acceleration measurements, the information degrades over time and reduces the capability of the system. In a GPS-denied environment, a UAS must utilize alternative sensor sources for navigating. This thesis presents preliminary evaluation results on the usage of onboard down-looking electro-optical sensors and image matching techniques to assist in GPS-free navigation of aerial platforms. Following the presentation of the fundamental mathematics behind the proposed concept, the thesis analyzes the key results from three flight campaign experiments that use different sets of sensors to collect data. Each of the flight experiments explores different sensor setups, assesses a variety of image processing methods, looks at different terrain environments, and reveals limitations related to the proposed approach. In addition, an attempt to incorporate navigational aid solutions into a navigation system using a Kalman filter is demonstrated. The thesis concludes with recommendations for future research on developing an integrated navigation system that relies on inertial measurement unit data complemented by the positional fixes from the image-matching technique., Outstanding Thesis, Civilian, DSO National Laboratories, Singapore, Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

This report explores the extension of the conventional “kill chain” in a counterintuitive manner. Utilizing lessons learned from the SEA29 work in “Logistics in a Contested Environment,” the “kill chain” is re-defined backward from warhead detonation to “metal bending and metal delivery.” This process provides a more well-rounded examination of Department of Defense (DOD) efforts to maintain supply lines in a major conflict, specifically, those supply lines that provide key rare earth elements (REE) to DOD weapons contractors. Using linear programming and optimization, this report documents a design of three alternatives for the mining, refinement, and production of REEs. By defining a production equation around our Measures of Effectiveness and Performance (MOE/MOP), we maximized the weighted MOPs while minimizing damage to convoys. From the analysis of results, we found REE components produced remotely (OCONUS) and near CONUS had the best results while using medium and large convoys. Finally, the diverse background of the team, professionally and academically, allowed for a combination of perspectives during the research and modeling process, which ultimately led to the creation of this final report., Director, Warfare Integration (OPNAV N9I), Captain, United States Marine Corps, Seren, Israel Defence Forces, Civilian, Singapore Technologies Electronics, Singapore, Military Expert 5, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Military Expert 5, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Military Expert 5, Singapore Army, Military Expert 5, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Major, United States Army, Captain, United States Marine Corps, Captain, Singapore Army, Military Expert 5, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Civilian, Singapore Technologies - Engineering Land Systems, Singapore, Military Expert 5, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Captain, Singapore Army, Civilian, Singapore Technologies Engineering Land Systems, Singapore, Major, Singapore Army, Civilian, DSO National Labs, Singapore, Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) poses a threat to soldiers operating in mission areas, but current UXO detection systems do not provide the required safety and efficiency to protect soldiers from this hazard. Recent technological advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) present an opportunity to explore a novel concept for a UXO detection system. The system proposed in this study integrates a sUAS with an onboard single- or multiple-spectrum (MS) electro-optical (EO) sensor. The major contributions of this thesis include the development of an AI-based algorithm for reliable UXO detection using a Deep Learning Convolutional Neural Network, execution of experiments to validate the proposed system’s performance, and analysis of the proposed system’s feasibility. To that end, the thesis describes the development of the UXO detector for a single-spectrum sensor, followed by the development and integration of five UXO detectors for the MS sensor. The field experiment conducted using a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) sUAS equipped with a standard EO sensor is also described. This thesis concludes that AI-based UXO detection using a single-spectrum or MS sensor flown on a COTS sUAS is a feasible solution. The thesis also proposes the steps for further enhancement and improvement of the developed system and lays out additional test and evaluation strategies to fully test the developed capability.

This thesis aims to reduce the safety risks for warfighters in an area of operations where unexploded ordnance (UXO) may be present, and lessen the number of training opportunities due to malfunctioning munitions in a controlled environment. The thesis leverages the advancement in unmanned technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) development to complete dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks more effectively. Specifically, the thesis attempts to improve a trained AI detector's performance using different data-labeling methods as applied to the electro-optical images. The thesis describes the efforts conducted to train a UXO detector for a proposed deep learning convolutional neural network followed by validating its performance. To further enhance UXO detection capabilities, the research explores how the optimal target classification method developed and verified for a single-spectrum sensor can also be applied for a multispectral sensor. As such, the thesis outlines a development of a prototype of a real-time UXO detection system composed of a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) multi-spectral sensor and a small COTS unmanned aerial system.

The military’s installations on remote islands have the highest power costs and demand resilient and reliable power for mission assurance. These installations have no electrical connection to an external utility provider and encounter numerous challenges in incorporating renewable energy, and there is a pronounced gap in both defining resilience and measuring it for off-grid islanded microgrids at islanded naval installations (INIs). This work’s research objective was to develop a methodology to choose renewable energy microgrid designs that maximize resilience and minimize costs on remote islands with applications for INIs. The deliverable is a tool that incorporates the methodology to identify the cost of resilience using a measure that captures the area under the resilience curve. The tool uses the models developed in this research to create the resilience and cost trade-off curves for different microgrid design and maintenance options to enable decision makers to choose an optimal microgrid design primarily for remote islanded military installations like San Nicolas Island. The research concluded that resilience can be improved by using optimal power capacity ratios for a renewable energy microgrids, that redundancy improves resilience for less costs, and that more maintenance only improves resilience when the generation capacity is closer to the demand and for microgrids with less redundancy., Civilian, Department of the Navy, Approved for public release. distribution is unlimited

Machine-to-machine teaming is the trend of future warfare aiming at maximizing effectiveness of heterogeneous assets while performing a specific task or mission. Currently, modern militaries employ autonomous systems such as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and unmanned ground systems (UGS) independently with separate missions. This study explores the possibility of utilizing an autonomous swarm composed of UAS and UGS working in tandem in the improvised explosive device (IED) clearance mission in the urban environment. In this mission, the UAS serves as the "eyes" to detect IED within a specific area assigned by an operator, while the UGS as the "hands and legs" to respond and neutralize the IED detected by the UAS. The thesis uses Cameo Systems Modeler, an industry-leading cross-platform collaborative model-based systems engineering (MBSE) environment, to model the joint UAS and UGS mission and then integrate it with a domain-specific MATLAB/Simulink environment where high-fidelity UAS and UGS models were developed., Outstanding Thesis, Captain, Singapore Army, Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is becoming the industry standard for systems engineering activities. To avoid design flaws and reduce rework and cost, the descriptive models developed using the modern MBSE tools need to be integrated with other engineering discipline models. The co-simulation approach envisioned for current MBSE tools facilitates the use of external solvers to solve mathematical expressions within the model. Indeed, integrating complex simulations to couple descriptive and physics-based models is a challenging task requiring quite a few adjustments to both models to produce an executable MBSE model. This thesis aims to enhance the use of one of the most advanced MBSE tools—Cameo Systems Modeler (CSM)—to be able to execute high-fidelity models of combat systems running in the Simulink development environment. Such an executable model should greatly improve and enhance feasibility of analysis of any combat mission during early system design phases. As an example, this thesis models a co-orbital engagement (COE) of two satellites and walks through all steps of the CSM-Simulink integration process. A shared workspace of MATLAB serves as a critical enabler for dealing with the data transfer. The thesis provides an example of how the developed integrated model can be used to analyze the COE mission and explore an effect of reshaping the design space via varying a set of mission requirements., Outstanding Thesis, Capitao-Tentente, Brazilian Navy, Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.

Based on recent priorities for digital engineering strategy within DoD, there is an opportunity for coordinated research efforts tailored towards unmanned surface vehicles. Such efforts are focused on utilization of models to inform decision making based on a single source of authoritative truth, facilitating integration of new technologies and improvement to coordination and communication across stakeholders and engineers. In support of those objectives, this work proposes a coordination of research and design work as appropriate. The primary focus is the analysis of capabilities and functions for the Long Range Unmanned Surface Vessel (LRUSV). To expand that design and to demonstrate the utility of digital engineering as an integrating mechanism, this work will utilize the ship design experience and expertise of Navy engineers and the operational experience of NPS students to conduct innovative early stage design projects that examine both the operational and design considerations for unmanned surface vessels. The operational modeling conducted at NPS will focus on the full spectrum of vessel operations. In accordance with the digital engineering concept, that operational modeling will be conducted simultaneously with an expanded analysis effort, with an emphasis on a shared starting point and problem set. This will result in a more focused tradeoff environment, where operational experience and input informs the design effort of engineers and the design experience of engineers informs operational modeling and capability assessment. Joint Cross-service Research Project ID NPS-21-J218-A (combines topics NPS-21-N218 and NPS-21-M181)

An increase in technology and software capabilities has led to an increase in computer modeling to better understand systems. There are many methods of modeling and various software programs created for this purpose. By exploring a program called Cameo Enterprise Architecture (Cameo), made by the software company No Magic Incorporated, the goal is to utilize this state-of-the-art software, used for model-based systems engineering (MBSE) by the DOD research labs, to drive a standalone physical model of the weapon system. Cameo provides a variety of tools for in-depth system modeling and architecture, and the goal of this thesis is to explore different applications of Cameo and techniques involved in using it to model real systems. This thesis presents a physical model of the Mk 15 Phalanx Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) built using the Lego Mindstorms kit and then develops a routine to control it from Cameo. Such an integrated model is thought of as a useful tool to verify the requirements of the system at the early stages of its design. The developed integral model is tested using realistic scenarios to determine the effectiveness of the diagrams and models created in Cameo.

The objective of this research was to quantify the undesired pitch and heave motions caused by wave-induced loads on a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operating near the surface. Accomplishing this objective will help to inform system design requirements necessary to ensure desired performance during operations. An experimental study was conducted utilizing a towing tank with wave-making capability and a commercially available ROV. The ROV was tested in the tank at near-surface depths using both single-component and two-component waves for zero speed and forward speed conditions. Pitch, depth, and thruster data were collected from the ROV and compared against control runs to determine the effect of the wave-induced loads on the ability of the ROV to control pitch and maintain depth. For pitch, the results showed that the response had components from linear loads, nonlinear loads, and natural system frequencies. Linear loads resulted in a pitch response that increased with wavelength and ROV speed. Low-frequency nonlinear loads resulted in a measurable pitch response at the wave component frequency differences used. Natural system frequencies resulted in a pitch response at frequencies specific to the ROV, and this response increased with speed. For depth, little response was seen due to the control authority of the ROV; however, the vertical thruster response showed that wave-induced loads have the potential to affect depth if sufficient control authority is not present., Outstanding Thesis, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Approved for public release. distribution is unlimited

This report examines the transport and delivery of logistics in contested environments within the context of great-power competition (GPC). Across the Department of Defense (DOD), it is believed that GPC will strain our current supply lines beyond their capacity to maintain required warfighting capability. Current DOD efforts are underway to determine an appropriate range of platforms, platform quantities, and delivery tactics to meet the projected logistics demand in future conflicts. This report explores the effectiveness of various platforms and delivery methods through analysis in developed survivability, circulation, and network optimization models. Among other factors, platforms are discriminated by their radar cross-section (RCS), noise level, speed, cargo capacity, and self-defense capability. To maximize supply delivered and minimize the cost of losses, the results of this analysis indicate preference for utilization of well-defended convoys on supply routes where bulk supply is appropriate and smaller, and widely dispersed assets on shorter, more contested routes with less demand. Sensitivity analysis on these results indicates system survivability can be improved by applying RCS and noise-reduction measures to logistics assets., Director, Warfare Integration (OPNAV N9I), Major, Israel Defence Forces, Civilian, Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd, Singapore, Commander, Republic of Singapore Navy, Commander, United States Navy, Captain, Singapore Army, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Major, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Captain, United States Marine Corps, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Captain, Singapore Army, Lieutenant Junior Grade, United States Navy, Captain, Singapore Army, Lieutenant Colonel, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Approved for public release. distribution is unlimited

With the evolving requirements of future mine countermeasure (MCM) operations, the operational capabilities of next-generation platforms must be sufficiently flexible to meet these changing needs. As the U.S. Navy's current and leading platform solutions to address rising threats continually evolve, their operational capabilities are either directly derived from or influenced by the platforms' architectural design parameters. Because of this mapping, traditional approaches of configuring operational systems around a vessel's architectural design may have limited flexibility to accommodate design revisions and may make such revisions costly and time consuming. Approaches centered around Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and digital engineering have seen success as simulation and modeling tools to better link architectural vessel designs to operational requirements of various types of vessels. To further extend on the MBSE approach to MCM operational requirements, this thesis considers steps necessary to establish a relationship between MCM capabilities and platform design parameters. This thesis explores potential related trade-offs by conducting a sensitivity study of the MCM vessel design parameters and their effects on the operational capabilities of the vessel. Such an approach can serve as the basis for a methodology influencing early-stage vessel design choices, as dictated by mission operational requirements.

This thesis builds on previously conducted experiments which measured the wave-induced loads that acted upon rectangular unmanned undersea vehicles of three different aspect ratios. Travis Turner, a graduate of Naval Postgraduate School, showed in his thesis in 2018 that the aspect ratio strongly influences specific loads, particularly the heave force. However, due to the limited number of aspect ratios tested, the functional relationship between the loads and the aspect ratio is unknown. This thesis identifies that relationship by numerically examining a broad range of aspect ratios by employing the Large Amplitude Motion Program (LAMP). The suitability of using LAMP is first confirmed by comparing the simulation results to the previously collected experimental results.

The military’s installations on remote islands have the highest power costs and demand resilient and reliable power for mission assurance. These installations have no electrical connection to an external utility provider and encounter numerous challenges in incorporating renewable energy, and there is a pronounced gap in both defining resilience and measuring it for off-grid islanded microgrids at islanded naval installations (INIs). This work’s research objective was to develop a methodology to choose renewable energy microgrid designs that maximize resilience and minimize costs on remote islands with applications for INIs. The deliverable is a tool that incorporates the methodology to identify the cost of resilience using a measure that captures the area under the resilience curve. The tool uses the models developed in this research to create the resilience and cost trade-off curves for different microgrid design and maintenance options to enable decision makers to choose an optimal microgrid design primarily for remote islanded military installations like San Nicolas Island. The research concluded that resilience can be improved by using optimal power capacity ratios for a renewable energy microgrids, that redundancy improves resilience for less costs, and that more maintenance only improves resilience when the generation capacity is closer to the demand and for microgrids with less redundancy.

In view of increasing urbanization worldwide, it is expected that many future military operations will occur in urban environments. To conduct an urban operation effectively, the dismounted warfighter requires real-time situational awareness. Yet, delivering this information during such an operation can be difficult as communication links are weakened by infrastructure and transmission distance is reduced. To address these challenges, the research applies a system architecture process approach to investigate the problem space and recommend a potential solution. An integrated system is designed and built by utilizing small aerial vehicles and a wireless mesh network system to establish a constant and reliable communication network for the exchange of real-time information. In this thesis, field testing is conducted to verify the integrated system's performance, using three scenarios to simulate building heights found in a city. Test sites were selected to provide a realistic urban environment, which matched the test environment requirements. Field test results revealed that the noise floor value increases when the integrated system propels to a higher altitude and travels farther from the ground control station. Based on the results, a wireless mesh network signal strength matrix table was introduced as a reference aid to determine the optimal configuration (i.e., altitude versus distance) for deploying the integrated system.In view of increasing urbanization worldwide, it is expected that many future military operations will occur in urban environments. To conduct an urban operation effectively, the dismounted warfighter requires real-time situational awareness. Yet, delivering this information during such an operation can be difficult as communication links are weakened by infrastructure and transmission distance is reduced. To address these challenges, the research applies a system architecture process approach to investigate the problem space and recommend a pote

How can the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy minimize repetitive requirement changes while maintaining a low cost in its battleship design? This question pivots around the complexity of the ship design process. Although a naval vessel is a single unit, it incorporates a large collection of various systems that range from weapons and navigation systems to habitability and support elements. Interoperability concerns persist within the design phase, which reflects the reality that a naval vessel is part of a larger system, the country’s naval force. Complexity and interoperability add to other challenges in the ship design process including high costs and lengthy schedules. Depending on the type of design procedure implemented, requirement changes increase, thereby extending the schedule and delaying operationalization. The need to establish and practice effective design methodologies has become imperative for achieving efficient naval ship acquisition with reduced costs and condensed timelines. Using the set-based design method—first implemented in U.S. Naval Ship Designs—this thesis explores the prospects of reducing repetitive requirement changes in the ROK Navy’s ship acquisition process., http://archive.org/details/setbaseddesignin1094562264, Lieutenant Commander, Republic of Korea Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The proliferation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) has contributed to the asymmetric threat of malevolent actors exploiting this technology for mischief or harm. Existing ground-based solutions are limited by line of sight, while human-operated responder drones can be less responsive and more labor-intensive. Hence, there is a capability requirement for autonomous vision-based pursuit and interception of unauthorized drones. To address this, the author developed a computer vision (CV) algorithm to detect, track and estimate the relative position and range of a hovering and moving airborne small UAS target in field conditions. CV-based measurements were compared against GPS data, to assess the range and angular estimation performance of the CV algorithm. Then, the CV-estimated range and angular information was processed by a flight control algorithm utilizing simple angular guidance principle to pursue and intercept the target. Field tests of the algorithm were done using a prototype drone. This research will inform the conceptual design and choice of hardware implementation for a commercial-off-the-shelf-based counter-UAS capability. More broadly, the research contributes to the body of knowledge in autonomous object tracking applications., http://archive.org/details/visionbasedrelat1094563509, Outstanding Thesis, Major, Republic of Singapore Air Force, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Naval vessels are subjected to underwater explosions that impart a mechanical shock onto the ship structure, its subsystems, equipment and crew. This violent shock loading, although not in direct contact with the ship hull, seeks to cause significant damage and even failure of critical components, potentially rendering vital systems inoperable. To ensure deployment of robust systems, shock hardening of surface ships is established in part through shock qualification of mission-essential shipboard equipment. Current shock qualification methods predominantly rely on demonstration of satisfactory performance under prescribed physical testing schedules using standardized shock test machines. A pass/fail rating is assigned based on post-test operational evaluation and visual inspection of structural elements, not from measured response values. An updated shock failure assessment approach is found through numerical experimentation of standard shock platform models, full ship simulations and reduced order equipment models approximating various shock testing scenarios. Introduction of a simple functional failure representation provides a definite means by which to assess the response severity and time at failure. Threshold values for the peak velocity response and change in displacement are thusly established and proposed as deterministic shock failure criteria in order to reduce uncertainty in the shock qualification of shipboard equipment.

This thesis analyzes the validity of using linear superposition to accurately predict the forces and moments on a shallowly submerged vessel in a complex seaway. Linear superposition implies that the forces and moments due to the complex seaway are simply the summation of the forces and moments of the single regular waves that combine to create the complex seaway. The forces and moments are measured on a UUV-shaped model in the tow tank with wave making capability at the Naval Postgraduate School with the aid of various data collection processes. First, the forces and moments due to single regular waves are studied. Single regular wave results are then combined to predict what complex waveform loads would be and the accuracy is assessed. The results show that linear superposition is a valid assumption over the wave heights and frequencies tested, especially for wavelengths greater than the length of the submerged body when the submerged depth is twice the diameter of the body.

Unmanned systems are gaining popularity in many modern-day applications, and their growth potential in unmanned technologies is infinite. These systems have created research and development opportunities for enabling autonomous behavior to reduce human workload and involvement in tedious operations. This thesis assesses autonomy-enabling technologies for conducting search-and-rescue (SA) operations and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions using a small unmanned system (sUAS). These technologies include an electro-optical sensor, onboard processor, and computer-vision (CV) algorithms. In a previous master’s thesis by Wee Kiong Ang, a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) quadcopter sUAS was integrated with a suite of hardware and multiple-moving-target-detection software. Building upon that work, this thesis aims to advance the system’s capabilities by exploring the applicability of the aforementioned three technologies on an sUAS. Using the systems engineering approach, the baseline system deficiencies are identified first. Next, a technology enabler review is conducted to explore the relevant COTS products and paradigms. Then, through the implementation of a set of changes, the baseline system architecture is reassessed and consequently redesigned, followed by an assessment of state-of-the-art CV algorithms. After being tested in a field experiment based on SA/ISR-type mission scenarios, the developed prototype was found to be successful., http://archive.org/details/advancingcotsuav1094560353, Outstanding Thesis, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The level of unmanned aerial system (UAS) technology provides an opportunity to improve productivity and at the same time increase safety in airport operations. This thesis aims to study the requirements of a system of Group 1 UAS swarm to perform foreign object debris (FOD) management at an airport. A concept of operations of the Automated FOD Detection System (AFDS) was designed, and the graphical user interface (GUI) was developed to prove the concept. A variety of image processing algorithms was developed in MATLAB to perform the functions of AFDS. FOD parameters such as its color and size, as well as the operating altitude of UAS and the image processing filter window size, were varied to determine the optimal AFDS configuration. This research involved hands-on experience of assessing the developed algorithms on board a commercial-off-the-shelf DJI UAS in a series of experiments conducted over a real runway at Camp Roberts, CA. The performance of the system in a large airport was assessed and the costs involved in implementing the system were determined. The results showed that FOD management using Group 1 UAS is feasible, with future work required in developing control algorithms of the UAS and testing them to eventually operationalize the AFDS., http://archive.org/details/assessmentoffore1094560426, Outstanding Thesis, Air Force, Singapore, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Due to its complexity, an urban area is a challenging multi-dimensional environment for ground warfare. Recent technological advancements have enabled militaries to utilize different-size unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) to support a variety of missions. This thesis presents guidance algorithms for a search and kill mission developed for some generic UGV swarms, which may be an attractive application, particularly for smaller UGVs operating in an urban environment. Through a series of computer simulations, the research evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of the algorithms in executing such a mission in indoor and outdoor urban environments. The developed simulation allows varying many parameters, thus achieving closeness to the real-world situation when different environments, platforms, sensors, and weapons are used. Computer simulations presented in this paper may also assist military leaders in choosing key mission parameters to maximize the outcome of potential future engagements., http://archive.org/details/assessingtheeffe1094560354, Outstanding Thesis, Army, Singapore, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Current International Maritime Organization (IMO) and U.S. Coast Guard regulations require inclining tests of vessels to use three heel-measuring devices, one of which must be a pendulum. This is a problem since pendulums are required to be at least 10 feet in height and newer vessel designs are constrained by overhead clearance and deck space. To investigate this problem, this thesis examines five different stability test results that were submitted to the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center (MSC). The author identified and inputted random error into the independent variables used to calculate each vessel’s metacentric height (GM). The independent variables were then used in a Design of Experiment (DOE) to examine which factors had the strongest effect on GM. Of the factors analyzed, the device used to measure heel angle proved to be the most significant. The author then constructed three different miniature models to conduct inclining experiments in a controlled environment. The heel-measuring devices used during these experiments were a smartphone and pendulum. In all three miniature model experiments, the smartphone demonstrated better precision over the pendulum. This thesis recommends keeping current standards and regulations intact until further data and research are gathered., http://archive.org/details/testingstability1094559662, Lieutenant, United States Coast Guard, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This study evaluated the feasibility of swapping a system of small multi-rotor unmanned aerial systems during flight for persistent perimeter surveillance. The systems engineering processes, such as requirement analysis and functional analysis, were followed by designing the overall concept of system and identifying high-level requirements for it. The research also included system prototyping. The developed system prototype consisted of three COTS products: multiple quadcopters, a single router, and a laptop running Python code. Quadcopters were programmed to fly in different predefined patterns over the Military Operation at Urban Environment Training site at Impossible City, CA, and McMillan Field at Camp Roberts, CA. Videos were recorded during the tests. While one quadcopter was flying, the remaining two stayed on stand-by. Once the airborne quadcopter depleted its battery life to the predetermined level, one of the standby quadcopters was activated as a replacement. The process can be repeated continuously, assuring an uninterrupted video stream. By monitoring the battery level and autonomously swapping quadcopters, the system showed that endurance can exceed the capability of a single quadcopter and possibly perform 24/7 persistent surveillance, or until the system fails mechanically.

The current class of Landing Craft Utility (LCU) has been in service in the U.S. Navy since the 1960s. Primarily used to land heavy vehicles, equipment, personnel, and cargo ashore in an amphibious assault, its basic design has served well over the last half century of use. However, certain loading combinations impacted by weight creep of particular cargoes have recently come to challenge established operational stability limits. The stability criteria currently employed came from traditional open ocean stability studies and therefore may not be optimal for the typical coastal transits of these specialized vessels. This study examines the intact transverse static and dynamic stability of the LCU in order to determine more appropriate criteria for short-range transits close to shore. The analysis mainly uses the Program of Ship Salvage Engineering (POSSE) software and the standard Ship Motion Program (SMP) to model a stochastic sea state, simulate the LCU's loading conditions, and predict the craft's dynamic response in various sea state conditions. The LCU's static transverse stability is derived by the POSSE software in terms of righting arm diagrams for different loading conditions, while the SMP software determines the dynamic transverse stability. The SMP analysis is based on seakeeping theory, using sea spectra model techniques to determine the LCU's roll angle dynamic responses. Based upon these simulation results, the study evaluates the current stability criteria and arrives at several dynamic stability recommendations and operational limits for loading conditions of interest.

The U.S. Coast Guardﾒs upcoming acquisition of the Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) offers many opportunities to leverage recent procurement lessons to achieve the programﾒs affordability requirement of $310 million per hull. We explore the question of how lessons learned from the National Security Cutter (NSC) and Fast Response Cutter (FRC) procurement programs were applied to the Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC) acquisition strategy to achieve affordability. We examine procurement lessons addressing management reforms, best practices in competition, contract structure, multiyear procurement, requirements generation, and test and evaluation We validate the Coast Guardﾒs OPC cost requirement of $310 million per hull using notional design data. We further illustrate the impact that varying specific design characteristics (speed, personnel, and length/beam) has on ship production cost. Finally, we conclude that the U. S. Coast Guard has successfully incorporated lessons from the NSC and FRC procurement programs into the OPC acquisition strategy and we present a trade-off analysis that program managers may use in future source selection processes.

In an increasingly complex environment crowded with obstacles, particularly manned and unmanned traffic, technological advancements can autonomously provide alerts to the presence of incoming threats. In other words, advancements such as computer vision (CV) capability enhance overall situation awareness. This thesis explores the development and integration of CV capability onboard a functional unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to detect and track multiple proximate moving targets autonomously. A systems engineering approach is applied to define, analyze, and synthesize systematically a proposed system architecture for the real-time autonomous detection and tracking capability via visual sensors onboard the UAV. Both the hardware and software architecture design are discussed at length. Then, a series of tests that were conducted progressively to assess and evaluate the overall system architecture are described. Multiple UAVs and unmanned ground vehicles represented the contested operational environment. The developed CV algorithm proved successful at detecting and tracking multiple moving targets in real-time operation, thus laying the foundation for future research and implementation of the developed techniques in the automatic vision-based collision-avoidance guidance architecture.

This thesis builds upon existing research involving energy microgrid solutions and applies the findings to isolated U.S. Navy locations, specifically, San Nicolas Island. This includes accurately building power system models for U.S. Navy remote and disparate island facilities total power-system microgrids and providing vital information for decision makers. Multifactor optimization and analysis conducted in this thesis led to enhancement of the proposed models and can aid in development of efficient control solutions. These solutions would allow the U.S. Navy to efficiently manage power systems at facilities worldwide. Ultimately, these optimizations can lead to net-zero energy solutions. The experimental and analytical methods presented in this thesis detail the technical simulations from the EnergyPLAN software model. By implementing these plans, the models and approaches developed in this thesis can be applied to other locations, as well.

Successful landing of an autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle requires a high degree of accuracy and efficient, real-time processing. This research applies systems engineering concepts to investigate the feasibility of applying computer vision techniques and visual feedback in the control loop for an autonomous system. This thesis examines the framework and performance of an algorithm designed to detect and track a runway in images captured from a camera onboard an aircraft during the final approach and landing stages of flight. Using a series of image processing techniques to localize the runway and the Hough transformation for line detection, the algorithm is capable of detecting the edges of a runway with over 96 percent accuracy through 3000 test images. The operating conditions for this algorithm include any scenario in which visual flight rules apply. Additionally, the system will perform with runways that comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Future applications of this algorithm should include aircraft attitude and pose estimation as well as full integration into an autonomous aircraft control system.

This report explores the merits of light aircraft carrier (CVL) design implementation in future U.S. Naval Force composition and how set-based design (SBD) can be used to produce the ideal CVL design for a future maritime conflict scenario. The scenario is based on the Naval Postgraduate School’s Maritime War—2030 scenario written by Captain Jeff Kline. The size and expense of Nimitz and Ford class aircraft carriers represent a strategic vulnerability in future maritime conflict. Using smaller aircraft carriers will reduce the risk to grand strategy as well as life cycle and operating costs, provided a light aircraft carrier can facilitate the assorted rotary wing, fixed wing, electronic attack, and unmanned systems required for the conflict. SBD thinking can be used to produce a feasible design for a CVL by mapping a design space to meet the needs of a potential future conflict. This thesis examines the trade space in major design areas such as tonnage, aircraft launch method, propulsion, and performance in order to illustrate the merits of SBD in designing naval assets for a future force.

In a GPS-denied environment, one of the possible selections for navigating an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) is through real-time visual odometry. To navigate in such an environment, the UGV needs to be able to detect, identify, and relate the static and dynamic objects such as trucks, motorbikes, and pedestrians in the on-board camera field of view. Therefore, object recognition becomes crucial in navigating UGVs. However, object recognition is known to be one of the challenges in the field of computer vision. Current analytic video software inadequately utilizes heuristics like size, shape, and direction to determine whether a detected object is a human, a vehicle, or an animal. This thesis explores another approach, the deep-learning technique, which makes use of neural networks based on vast collections of training data images. This thesis follows a systems engineering approach in analyzing the need and suggesting a solution. It shows how to create and train the aforementioned networks using just three objects: a chair, a table, and a car. A Pioneer UGV equipped with the corresponding sensors is then used to test the developed algorithms. The preliminary analysis conducted in this thesis shows good potential for using the deep-learning technique on future UGVs.

Currently used Landing Craft Utility (LCU) stability criteria may not be optimal for the typical coastal transits of those vessels. Therefore, this study examines the intact transverse static and dynamic stability of the LCU in order to recommend more appropriate criteria for short-range transits. The analysis mainly uses the Program of Ship Salvage Engineering (POSSE) software and the standard Ship Motion Program (SMP) to model a stochastic sea state, simulate the LCU's loading conditions, and predict the craft's dynamic responses in certain sea state conditions. The LCU's static transverse stability is derived by the POSSE software in terms of righting arm diagrams for different loading conditions, while the SMP software determines the dynamic transverse stability. The SMP analysis is based on seakeeping theory, using sea spectra model techniques to determine the LCU's roll angle dynamic responses. Based on these simulation results, the study evaluates the currently used stability criteria and arrives at new dynamic stability recommendations and improved operational limits. These may be further refined by using hull appendage implementations in follow-on studies.

As the demand for Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) technology increases, the current guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms will scale poorly to meet the demand because currently, significant resources are required to certify flight controllers on an individual platform basis. As different airframes are introduced to meet the expanding mission requirements, the resources required to sustain the GNC certification demand will become a limiting factor in scalability. The feasibility of replacing conventional GNC techniques with modern adaptive control theory was conducted on a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) open-source autopilot. This enabled rapid prototyping and integration of an adaptive controller. The adaptive controller architecture was designed to be aircraft non-specific. This ensures the controller easily integrates into any aircraft, therefore minimizing the resource burden of tuning and certification. The adaptive controller tested in this research improved performance over the baseline controller and was rapidly integrated on multiple various airframes with minimal resources. Improved performance over classical feedback was achieved with fast and robust adaptation in multiple regimes of flight.

This thesis analyzes the vessel's potential contribution to distributed lethality as a surface warfare (SuW) platform. The author first attempts to establish traceability, requirements and capabilities while determining the architecture framework in accordance with the Department of Defense Architectural Framework (DODAF). Then, using an experimental approach with a basic operational analysis, this thesis demonstrates, through the use of model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and simulation tools, the effectiveness of an anti-surface warfare (ASUW) version of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Continuous Trail Unmanned Vessel (ACTUV) in supporting distributed lethality. Analysis is built on ACTUV simulation data already available as well as results from the author's simulations.

This report outlines a design methodology and provides a recommendation for an alternative fleet architecture to the United States naval force for 2030–2035. While there are many methods and techniques to generate future fleet alternatives, Set-Based Design (SBD) is used in this report to generate a future fleet architecture. SBD principles maintain multiple requirements and leave design options open late into the development cycle without committing to any specific designs. The purpose of leaving multiple design options open until the very end is to reduce the amount of rework and cost overruns if requirements change. As the design timeline concludes, SBD uses empirical data to collapse focus to the final design solution. To implement SBD in this report, the team developed a computer model to optimize ship and platform choices simultaneously across eight critical warfare areas based on multiple user defined inputs. This theoretical optimized fleet is measured against unique measures of effectiveness to verify its validity for future operations. This method of analysis proposes a future fleet architecture consisting of 297 fighting ships, 88 Military Sealift Command ships, and 566 unmanned vehicles.

This project report describes a proposed foundation for a system-of-systems training architecture that closes gaps in the Navy's current strike group training processes to more effectively train and support warfighters in the execution of a webfires concept. Today's fleet training systems lack the capability and capacity to provide adequate integrated training that leverages the necessary high-velocity learning expected of future warfighters who will employ and implement the webfires concept in the next 10 to 15 years. The current training processes and systems fail to provide sufficient hardware/software integration, training repetition, and performance feedback necessary to prepare warfighters to employ webfires against a near-peer threat. This report details requirements that a future training system should possess to fill gaps in the Navy's current training process and align it with the Optimized Fleet Response Plan. It contains actionable recommendations for stakeholders and identifies key technology development areas that will enable a future webfires system. This report's recommendations will improve the way the Navy conducts fleet training and will create a competitive advantage in the maritime environment.

The current generations of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) are reliant on the human operator for collision avoidance. This reliance poses a constraint on the operational envelope of the USV as it requires a high bandwidth and low latency communication link between the USV and control station. This thesis adopts a systems engineering approach in identifying the capability gap and the factors that drive the need for a USV with autonomous capability. An algorithm employing edge detection and morphological structuring methods is developed in this thesis to explore the feasibility of using a computer vision--based technique to provide a situational awareness capability, which is required to achieve autonomous navigation. The algorithm was tested with both color video imagery and infrared video imagery, and the results obtained from processing the images demonstrated the viability of using this information to provide situational awareness to the USV. It is recommended that further work be done to improve the robustness of the algorithm.

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) would like to have real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) data about a landing zone (LZ) prior to the aircraft entering its terminal phase of flight. This thesis provides a feasibility analysis and prototyping of a fast autonomous recon system. Field tests were conducted in the Mojave Desert using a delivery system (1/2 scale Patriot Missile rocket kit) and two aerodynamic test sets (ATS); the delivery system and test sets were constructed by modifying commercial-off-the-shelf products. Two launches were conducted; the data obtained from the altimeters determined that the ATSs experienced large amounts of g-force upon their initial acceleration and landing. The use of a missile or rocket to propel the system will allow for increased range and extended on-station time. Additionally, the Fast Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (FASTISR) system could be used to increase the flexibility of certain units that require ISR on their missions, instead of waiting for in-theater assets. Utilizing a missile or rocket does come with some increased risks The FASTISR system must be designed and built to withstand the increased g-forces. The conclusion is that the USMC could employ such a technology.

In the past few decades, various emerging and increasing threats in the maritime domain have posed a great challenge to the Coast Guard worldwide. Currently, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) seeks to tackle this problem using unmanned technologies and applications. In particular, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) seem to be a good solution contributing to successful maritime interdiction missions. The strategy would be to surround the target to restrict its further maneuver. In this case, a coordinated control of the intercept time and terminal angle attitude become the two main characteristics of the intercept mission. This thesis addresses exactly this problem. It uses a systems engineering approach to analyze the problem and comes up with the best solution, which happens to be a coordinated trajectory-shaping guidance strategy involving multiple USV pursuers. The corresponding algorithms were developed and tested for different engagement geometries through a series of computer simulations. Further verification was carried out using a three-dimensional dynamic robot simulator to study the different effects while implementing the developed algorithms on an onboard autopilot. Overall, this thesis proves that using USVs with the appropriate intercept guidance for maritime interdiction missions is a viable alternative/complement to the current operations involving only manned vessels.

Due to the high cost and logistical burden placed on deployed units by the Joint Precision Aerial Delivery System (JPADS), the USMC has requested proposals for a single-use tactical resupply glider that can resupply squads with 500 pounds of essential food and gear while costing less than $3,000 per unit and using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) electronics. The feasibility of this request was determined by designing, constructing, and testing two prototype gliding aerial delivery systems, Pun-Jet and Sparrow, using modern design and manufacturing techniques including AutoCAD, 3D printing, laser cutting and CorelDraw, and conducting field testing and subsequent analysis using MATLAB. It was determined that a low-cost, glider-based precision aerial delivery system utilizing COTS electronic components is likely a viable alternative to the parachute-based systems currently in use and can be constructed using modern manufacturing techniques. Further research should include an enlarged design, logistics, improvement of landing algorithms and navigation in GPS-degraded environments.

With the increased use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in military operations, their role in a missile defense operation is not well defined. The simulation program discussed in this thesis studies the feasibility of utilizing UAVs to patrol a potential Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) launch area using a single or multiple Counter Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (CUAVs), detecting the launch event and tracking an ICBM using the CUAVs' onboard optical sensors. The ultimate goal is to assess the parameters of ICBM ascent and provide target information to bring the attacking UAVs onto the anti-missile launch course to reliably intercept the threat. This thesis explores the challenges in creating a simulation program to process video footage from an unstable platform and the limitations of using background subtraction method to detect the missile motion. Although the simulation program test results showed that it is unable to consistently detect a missile launch and track its trajectory for all the test videos; the developed algorithms allowed a surveillance UAV to detect a missile launch for most of the videos and also track its trajectory with an accuracy that is sufficient for targeting purposes. This thesis is limited to using the simulation program to detect a launch event offline and is based on the amateur rocket launch data gathered during the launch trials at Mojave Desert in May of 2016.

The ability to communicate and transmit targeting data via the electromagnetic spectrum is crucial to the Navy's ability to fight. However, in recent years, potential adversaries have significantly advanced their electronic warfare capabilities, obtaining an ability to interfere with the Navy's use of the electromagnetic spectrum during operations in contested environments. SEA23 investigates concepts of operation focusing on future potential electromagnetic-spectrum warfighting capabilities in the 2025Ð2030 timeframe. Specifically, we explore these capabilities using modular unmanned and manned platforms capable of carrying communications and data suites to enable cross-domain targeting information in support of tactical offensive operations in a contested, denied, degraded, intermittent, and limited-bandwidth environment. This project focuses on developing a system-of-systems architecture and analyzing alternatives to provide potential solutions while developing the associated concepts of operation. We recommend an architecture based on Link 16 and organic rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles to transfer sensor to shooter data in demanding and contested environments.

The United States Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Cutter program requires a method to analyze trades made between performance and affordability. Models of seakeeping performance were developed using linear seakeeping analysis, and a cost model was adopted from previous research. Both models were integrated into a decision support tool. Entering a notional Offshore Patrol Cutter design into the tool revealed that the program would likely perform well but could have a high cost risk. The decision support tool connects the two competing ideas of seakeeping performance and system affordability for program managers, while allowing different designs to be tested. Additional research into this topic should consider using more accurate seakeeping analysis techniques to create more accurate seakeeping performance prediction models.

The Army and Air Force have interest in the development of a Joint Precision Aerial Delivery System (JPADS) that could remotely and accurately resupply dispersed and geographically isolated ground forces. The Marine Corps has requested options that offer increased accuracy, lighter payloads, greater stand-off distances and reduced cost. To date, most research has resulted in a series of large, expensive and platform-specific solutions, which do not capitalize on the enhanced range and capability afforded by existing and commercially available unmanned aerial system technology. The systems engineering processes contained in the conceptual and preliminary design phases are utilized to investigate and develop a potentially low-cost alternative to existing systems. Using an Agile methodology, individual components are designed and incorporated into an integrated aerial system that utilizes an autonomously guided and controlled ram-air parachute delivered from an unmanned aerial platform. Employment of the low-cost micro-light weight class of JPADS has the potential to provide all services with a near-term platform to remotely deliver diverse logistical and sensor payloads while minimizing risk to forces.