UAV Data Exchange Test Bed for At-Sea and Ashore Information Systems

Abstract : The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has articulated the need for more effective command teams through the improved use of information. In particular, the RCN indicates the need for improved information management techniques to promote greater situational awareness. In the maritime domain, improvements could be realized through more effective use of data collected by sensors and receivers onboard Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). UAVs provide numerous capabilities such as persistent over-the-horizon surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance. However, the data collected from a UAV will be best utilized when integrated with other information that taken collectively supports Maritime Domain Awareness. This call-up explores the potential use of UAV collected data in both at-sea and ashore information systems. The basic idea is to establish a test bed specifically for testing UAV data exchange with at-sea and ashore information systems. Data exchange will be investigated using instances of Coalition Shared Data Server (CSD). The CSD is an implementation of the STANAG 4559 to ensure data discovery and interoperability amongst mission participants. The testbed will evaluate its synchronization capabilities in a low bandwidth environment and explore the potential of using the CSD to store and retrieve AIS data. In addition, a review and comparison of the current GCCS-M architecture and functionalities with the upcoming MTC2 system is provided. A survey of UAV current and future sensor payloads is also included.