Operational evaluation of the electro-optic tactical decision aid, version 3.1

• Main Author: Koch, Cynthia A
• Other Authors: Davidson, Kenneth L.
• Language: English
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2012
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/8770

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited === The Electro-Optical Tactical Decision Aid (EOTDA) is a tool weather forecasters use to predict target detection ranges and the performance of various electroptic precision-guided weapon systems. The user inputs environmental and tactical information, such as the expected atmospheric conditions and target and background descriptions. The primary EOTDA output - are target detection ranges and thermal contrast information. The EOTDA supports three types of weapon systems: in%ed (8- 12 micron), visible (0.40.9 micron), and laser (1.06 micronm). This study is an evaluation of the EOTDA performance of an infrared (IR) weapons system used during a training exercise at Naval Air Station (NAS) Fallon, Nevada in January 1996. In addition, a sensitivity study of the EOTDA parameters was completed. The results showed that the EOTDA predicted ranges within 20% of - the observed detection ranges when correct environmental information was available. The most critical parameters required for the EOTDA were moisture, aerosol selection, the target area forecast, and composition of the target and background. Recognizing the strengths and weakness of the EOTDA will help operational users improve electroptic forecasts and help guide future research and development efforts