Data communication and data fusion architecture for RAPID RESPONSE 96-98

Abstract

Executive Summary: The concept of Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) has emerged in recent years as one of the most interesting research topics in Military Oceanography (MILOC): REA in a military environment is defined as "the acquisition, compilation and release of tactically relevant environmental information in a tactically relevant time frame". In this context, REA implies the integration of traditional methods of information gathering in MILOC with modern communications and data processing techniques, to ensure the timely delivery of environmental data to naval forces and commands in the course of a crisis situation. A fundamental aspect of Rapid Environmental Assessment deals with the quantity and quality of data that need to be gathered, processed and delivered to the final users. This document concentrates on the technological aspects of data processing, fusion and transmission, illustrating the evolution of the techniques adopted and their innovative impact on the overall capacity ofthe system. The Rapid Response series of operations demonstrated how Commercial-Off-The-shelf (COTS) Internet technologies could be successfully integrated to build ad-hoc networks in support of REA surveys. This paper analyzes the technologies and the methodologies that were used for the generation and the distribution of REA products. Recommendations aimed at the definition of operational systems are included.