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Core Thrusts
OVERVIEW
The Core Thrusts part of the Marine Corps Science and Technology (MCS&T) program has orga-
nized its 6.2 and 6.3 funds to support six core thrusts:
· Maneuver,
· Firepower,
· Mine Countermeasures,
· Logistics,
· Human Performance, Training, and Education, and
· Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnais-
sance (C4ISR).
Although there is no mission statement for the Core Thrusts, each thrust focuses on the development
of advanced technology (see Table 1.2~. This focus is consistent with the goals of ONR's Discovery and
Invention (D&I) organizational element.
Given below are overall findings and recommendations for the Core Thrusts. Each core thrust is
then discussed, and findings and recommendations are presented along with a detailed review of each
thrust's constituent projects.
Core Thrusts Findings and Recommendations
The Core Thrusts part of the MCS&T program was generally of high quality, and all the thrusts
seemed to address topics of interest to the Marine Corps. However, although many of the projects
reviewed were technically aggressive, several such as the tactical unmanned ground vehicle ap-
peared to the committee to be focused on near-term transition-dominated goals that do not correspond to
49
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
the D&I mission of the Core Thrusts. As noted in Chapter 1, the committee considers it important that
the Core Thrusts projects do not all take on the short-term, product-oriented characteristics of the Future
Naval Capabilities (FNCs), since the technologies that the FNCs exploit must emerge from Core Thrusts
(6.2 and 6.3) and Basic Research (6.1~.
The committee also notes that the overall Core Thrusts did not appear to represent a structured
response to significant shortfalls in Ship-to-Objective Maneuver (STOM) or Expeditionary Maneuver
Warfare (EMW) capability. In addition, for those cases where presenters mentioned shortfalls, the links
appeared to be ad hoc rather than the result of a planned process. The lack of an apparent overall
investment strategy for the Core Thrusts concerns the committee.
A number of Core Thrusts projects were leveraged against much larger U.S. Army or Defense
Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) efforts. For most projects, the extent of the Code 353
influence on the Army and DARPA efforts was unclear. In most Core Thrusts projects, committee
members were aware of related activities in the Navy, other Services, and/or DARPA, but the present-
ers, when questioned, seemed to have little or no knowledge of such activities. This lack of coordination
concerned the committee, particularly in regard to potential duplication of efforts.
As for the individual thrusts, the committee applauds the explicit recognition of the key roles played
by the Logistics and the Human Performance, Training, and Education thrusts, and it believes that the
separation of Mine Countermeasures (MCM) from Maneuver is sensible, given the extreme challenges
inherent in the MCM problem.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that the MCS&T program's Core Thrusts and Basic Re-
search components support the mission of discovery and invention, that is, exploration aimed at the
long-term development of base-level technologies that could support future FNC and Marine Corps
Warfighting Laboratory program initiatives. Thus, Code 353 should remove from the Core Thrusts and
Basic Research portfolios short-term, transition-oriented initiatives.
Recommendation. To better structure its support for the underpinnings of Expeditionary Maneuver
Warfare as well as Ship-to-Objective Maneuver, Code 353 should establish an S&T planning process
for the MCS&T program's Core Thrusts, similar to that recommended above for the LC-FNC, that is
suitably focused on the long-term capability needs of the Marine Corps.
Recommendation. In its Core Thrusts projects, Code 353 should enable broad coordination of efforts
beyond Code 35 (and beyond ONR), where possible and practical, with relevant S&T activities in the
other Services and in government agencies.
MANEUVER THRUST
The Marine Corps Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare concept focuses on the development of opera-
tional capabilities that enable speed, stealth, precision, and sustainability, with emphasis on improving
the efficacy of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). Desired operational capabilities include
enhanced deployability, reduced fuel consumption, multispectral tactical awareness, reduced gross
weight, improved survivability, autonomous systems, reduced logistical footprint, and improved mobil-
ity. The Maneuver thrust focuses on research and development of tactical and combat vehicles in the
area of mobility, materials, survivability, unmanned ground vehicles, and electric technologies.
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CORE THRUSTS
51
Maneuver Thrust Overall Findings and Recommendation
The two projects associated with the MAGTF Expeditionary Family of Fighting Vehicles
(MEFFV) (1) lightweight materials and (2) modeling, simulation, and analysis were both reasonable
D&I efforts. In particular, the committee was impressed by the modeling, simulation, and analysis effort
and strongly supports it. The other two projects reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting vehicle
(RST-V) and tactical unmanned ground vehicle (TUGV) with their current short-term transition goals
(FY04), seemed more suited to receive funding as an FNC rather than as D&I, as is currently the case.
The RST-V and TUGV projects, however, are making important contributions to the development of
hybrid-electric drives and autonomous operations on the battlefield.
Recommendation. Code 353 should transition the reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting vehicle
project and the tactical unmanned ground vehicle project out of the Maneuver thrust as planned, but
should continue support of initiatives in hybrid-electric and unmanned vehicles.
MAGTF Expeditionary Family of Fighting Vehicles
Lightweight Materials (6.2)
The lightweight materials project is developing advanced lightweight armor, structural-armor mate-
rials, and multifunctional material concepts that will improve the survivability of current and future
armored vehicles. The project aims to select candidate materials by the end of FY03 and to hand
prototypes ready for live-fire testing by the end of FY05. Testing of the final materials as integrated onto
vehicles will be performed by FY07. The expected benefit of this project is lighter armor that will give
future Marine Corps ground vehicles increased maneuverability and survivability.
Specific materials and processes being evaluated include fabrication of high-strength aluminum by
cryomilling; use of nano- to meso-scale powders and plasma spraying of carbon/carbon nanocomposites
to increase hardness; development of metal-matrix composites (aluminum and boron carbide) for struc-
tural material applications (increased toughness and strength); development of aluminum oxide/boron
carbide graded composites; and development of metal-ceramic-matrix composites and polymer-metal-
matrix composites for combined structural and armor applications.
Findings and Recommendations. Collectively, these activities in the lightweight materials project
represent a variety of potentially useful materials technology options for increasing the survivability of
ground combat systems. In Phase I of the project, several materials options have been identified and are
being developed for testing. Benefits of the proposed materials have been adequately described relative
to the performance of current materials. In addition, individual material or fabrication properties, includ-
ing hardness, strength, fracture toughness, and elongation, are being measured and evaluated relative to
the end-use. The committee found it difficult to draw any conclusions from the initial laboratory
material testing results, given the technical issues that might arise in fabricating the larger areas and
complex shapes required for structural platforms.
Transition of these materials is planned to occur through the Marine Corps Systems Command, and
the Army' s Future Combat System program and scheduled to be accomplished by the end of FY07.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue the lightweight materials project through down-selec-
tion and require that grantees clearly articulate the fabrication issues and overall costs associated with
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52
2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
different materials options. The technical issues associated with large-scale fabrication of these novel
materials should be identified and addressed early.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that the vehicle-testing phase of the lightweight materi-
als project involves the field-testing of vehicles equipped with final armor materials.
Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (6.3)
The modeling, simulation, and analysis project aims to develop a simulation-based acquisition tool-
kit that supports the development of an advanced family of vehicles optimized for lethality, survivabil-
ity, mobility, sustainability and reliability. The MEFFV is expected to replace the light armored vehicle
and the MlA1 Abrams tank over the next 15 years.
Modeling, simulation, and analysis software tools are being developed in four technical areas:
' ' ' ' conceptual design tools, and decision support.
to be used for vehicle life-cycle analysis, ad-
operational simulation and analysis, mobility modeling,
The resulting modeling and simulation capabilities are
vanced technology trade-off evaluations, and generation of appropriate investment strategies.
Findings and Recommendations. The operational simulation and analysis tool aims to integrate the
joint conflict and tactical simulation (JCATS) with appropriate inputs such as satellite imagery, weap-
ons data, and survivability performance. Post-processor improvements are also being developed to
expand the capabilities of the tool. An initial survivability analysis has been performed using a sample
MEFFV in an integrated infantry close-combat urban environment.
The conceptual design tool is being developed to enable early mission-specific design optimization
of the MEFFV. This software tool enables rapid visualization and rapid evaluation of vehicle designs
with different crew compartments, turret configurations, weapons, armor, and sensors.
Mobility modeling capabilities are being developed to predict and evaluate vehicle dynamics for
potential MEFFV designs in realistic Marine Corps mission terrains. These models will help to evaluate
the impact of technology trade-offs on mission performance; vehicle fuel efficiency and power require-
ments; and vehicle stability, ride, and handling. This activity has utilized existing commercial modeling
software to simulate vehicle dynamics, to define performance envelopes, to assess technology options,
and to evaluate life-cycle issues.
The multilevel decision support tool integrates a variety of input options and scenarios, such as
vehicle design performance parameters, with proposed advanced technologies and allows for their
examination through various survivability scenarios. The goal of this software tool is to collect informa-
tion necessary to produce an evaluation matrix that help to determine technology trade-offs in relation to
overall vehicle strengths and weaknesses.
Code 353 is scheduled to down-select the simulation design and development tools by the end of
FY03 and to complete the preliminary platform designs in FY04.
Recommendation. Code 353 should move aggressively to support the modeling, simulation, and
analysis project as a means to provide initial design evaluation relevant to the MEFFV.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue to support future modeling, simulation, and analysis
activities that build on existing tools and should strive to integrate the four existing activities in order to
develop a unique set of longer-term Marine Corps modeling and simulation tools that support the
MEFFV.
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CORE THRUSTS
53
Recommendation. Code 353 should coordinate the modeling, simulation, and analysis project,
where appropriate, with existing transportation modeling efforts at the Defense Modeling and Simula-
tion Office, the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command, the National Automotive
Center, and other federal and industrial agencies.
Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Targeting Vehicle (6.3)
The objective of the RST-V project is to develop and demonstrate survivable hybrid-electric tech-
no~ogies suitable for lightweight manned military reconnaissance and scout vehicles. The emphasis is
on the development of a vehicle that can be carried into the theater by a MV-22 Osprey aircraft. The
primary performance objectives for this phase of the RST-V project include demonstration of increased
fuel economy and range relative to earlier versions of the RST-V and of the ability to sustain 20 miles
of silent (battery or fuel cell) movement.
This project has resulted in the construction of four demonstrator vehicles. The final design relies
critically on its hybrid-electric drive a lightweight diesel engine dedicated to electric power generation
coupled with advanced rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and individually controlled in-hub motors.
The choice of in-hub drive motors allows for incorporation of a pneumatic folding suspension enabling
the vehicle's wheelbase and clearance to be collapsed significantly in order to meet the combined
requirements of rough terrain operation and V-22 transportability. The in-hub motors also reduce the
size of the engine compartment, thereby increasing the interior cargo capacity of the vehicle. Vehicle
safety certification, followed by operational user testing and evaluation, is scheduled to be conducted
throughout 2003.
Findings and Recommendations. The RST-V is a mature technology demonstration project that has
progressed steadily over the last 3 years. Initiated in the early 1990s, it is a heavily leveraged joint
DARPA/Marine Corps project (currently 70 percent DARPA, 30 percent MCS&T funds). It also effec-
tively uses results from other related efforts, including the National Automotive Center AHED 8 x 8, the
Combat Hybrid Power System, and the hybrid-electric high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle
(HMMWV), as well as the elements of the Army's Future Combat System.
The third and fourth prototype vehicles were completed in FY03 and are scheduled for evaluation
and testing in the first quarter of FY04. Initial vehicle cost is expected to be very high (primarily owing
to lithium-ion batteries), and the transition plan at the end of the project is unclear. There are no plans for
continuing this project beyond the first quarter of FY04.
In the view of the committee, this project seems to be more a technology integration, demonstration,
and assessment project than a D&I project.
Recommendation. Code 353 should transition the reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting ve-
hicle project to an appropriate FNC (such as the Electric Vehicle FNC) or to the Marine Corps Systems
Command for further development and testing. This transition plan should identify applications where
advanced hybrid-electric drive vehicles are desirable and productive and should also address the timing,
performance, and cost targets required of individual technologies (e.g., lithium-ion batteries).
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue to support the development of advanced hybrid-
electric vehicles and systems for Marine Corps use.
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Representative terms from entire chapter:
core thrusts
54
2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Tactical Unmanned Ground Vehicle (6.2 and 6.3)
The tactical unmanned ground vehicle project's objective is to support the development of an
unmanned, teleoperated, semiautonomous ground vehicle for remote combat tasks in order to reduce
risk and neutralize threats to individual marines. The TUGV is planned to be capable of performing
scouting missions; reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition; nuclear, biological, and chemi-
cal reconnaissance; obstacle-breaching; and direct fire. The desired operational capabilities include
mobility (co anywhere a marine needs to co1. affordability. survivability. denlovabilitv. transportability.
N~ ~ ~ ,, id, em, ~ ~ em, ~ em,
. · . - . , . · · . ~ . · · . . · . . . ·. - . . ..
robust commumcatlons, an easy-to-use man/maculne Interlace, and mission modularity (anlllty to alter
the vehicle for mission-specific capabilities while in the field).
It should be noted that the DOD Joint Robotics program, which is led by the Army, strongly
overlaps the goals and technologies of this project.
Findings and Recommendations. To date the TUGV project has gone through design award and Phase
I technology development, design, and demonstration. Phase II down-selects have reduced design
concepts from four to two. The designs will be further refined and then subjected to integrated testing
and demonstrations. In FY04, finished TUGV prototypes are scheduled to undergo basic platform
mobility testing and scout and surveillance demonstrations. The critical nature of the TUGV mission has
led the Marine Corps to commit to the purchase of 101 TUGVs beginning in FY06.
The committee recognizes that the TUGV provides a variety of capabilities to the Marine Corps, the
most notable of which is to remove marines from hostile, high-threat areas. The project has progressed
well over the last 2 years and has strong transitional support. The committee looks forward to the Phase
II performance evaluation and demonstration results. After completion of the Phase II development of
prototype vehicles (late FY04), the TUGV project is scheduled to be transferred to the Marine Corps
System Command, Unmanned Ground Vehicle Systems Joint Projects Office.
Although the TUGV project was presented to the committee as a part of MCS&T's Core Thrusts,
the committee notes that the TUGV is also listed in several ONR documents as being part of the
Autonomous Operations FNC.
Recommendation. Code 353 should clarify whether the tactical unmanned ground vehicle project is
operating to meet D&I or FNC expectations. Because the D&I and FNC elements of the MCS&T
program have somewhat different goals, care should be taken to avoid mixing missions.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue to support the tactical unmanned ground vehicle
project as planned, and coordination with the DOD Joint Robotics program should be maintained.
FIREPOWER THRUST
Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare relies heavily on long-range, accurate, and responsive naval
surface firepower support (NSFS). Robust, around-the-clock, all-weather, sea-based firepower is the
only joint capability that can fully meet the requirements of expeditionary maneuver operations and be
integrated with other joint-force firepower over an extended littoral battle space. The Navy's current
NSFS capability, however, is inadequate in terms of range, volume, and accuracy. Currently there is no
funded program of record that will meet Marine Corps requirements in this area.
1Gen Michael W. Hagee, USMC, Commandant of the Marine Corps. 2003. Marine Corps Concepts and Programs 2003,
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Washington, D.C. Available online at
CORE THRUSTS
55
in close combat, particu-
larly in the early phases of a sea-based operation. Nothing else is as responsive to a commander's needs,
or as reliable. As such, firepower is a key component in extending the reach and lethality of the
MAGTF. The MCWL's Experimentation Campaign Plan states that "the Lab continues to explore
technology solutions to address improvements in fire support to improve precision, terminal effects,
responsiveness and mobility. The focus of effort has been to address these areas with respect to Expedi-
tionary Maneuver Warfare (EMW) and specifically STOM as well as the subset of Military Operations
in Urban Terrain (MOUT)."2 Realizing the full potential of EMW will require a developmental effort
focused on improving command and control, maneuver, intelligence, integrated firepower, logistics,
force protection, and information operations.3 Among the firepower examples recently cited by the
Commandant of the Marine Corps as potentially supportive of the Sea Strike and Sea Basing concepts
are the Littoral Combat Ship and the DD(X) land-attack destroyer, which will provide long-range
precision and high-volume naval surface firepower to support OMFTS.4
Clearly, improved ship-launched and ground-launched firepower is critical to support the EMW
concept and STOM.
Ground-based, indirect firepower is irreplaceable when forces are joined
Firepower Thrust Overall Findings and Recommendations
Although many of the individual projects under way in the Firepower thrust seem to be pursuing
worthwhile objectives, the relationship between these projects and Marine Corps warfighting concepts
such as EMW and STOM was unclear. Given the importance of NSFS and ground-based indirect fire,
the committee finds it strange that no Firepower thrust projects support weapons to fulfill this need (for
example, projects on improved propellants, guidance systems, or munitions with increased range and/or
. .
preclslon .
A number of the projects seemed to be adding incremental upgrades to already-existing capabilities,
with near-term transition targets, as opposed to pursuing long-range science and technology that could
bring transformational improvements. The time scale and transition goals of some projects seemed more
characteristic of an FNC project than a D&I project.
Many of the projects described were adjuncts to Army efforts, and the MCS&T projects seemed to
be riding the coattails of other sponsors. Many of the systems needed by the Marine Corps are similar to
those needed by the Army, and funding levels dictate that the Army will be the principal driver.
Recommendation. Code 353 should immediately transition near-term projects in the Firepower thrust
to an appropriate FNC.
Recommendation. Code 353 should establish leveraging opportunities to support broad ONR and/or
DARPA initiatives in the area of naval surface firepower support.
- ~ —- -or - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -or - - - c:, -
2BrigGen Frank A. Panter, USMC, Commanding General, Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory. 2003. Marine Corps
Warfighting Laboratory Experimentation Campaign Plan: 2003. Marine Corns Combat Develonment Command. Ouantico.
Va., January 31, p. II-1. Available online at
56
MlA1 Firepower Enhancement
2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
6.2 Firepower
Results from Operation Iraqi Freedom were predominantly favorable for those firepower enhance-
ment systems already fielded. For example, an operator in actual combat conditions commented as
follows: "Position location capability and the ability to range a target and get a ten-digit grid were . . .
very useful. It proved valuable in fire missions and situational awareness." One criticism of the existing
firepower enhancement system was that it took 4 minutes for the Far Target Locator to align.5
Code 353 is pursuing two projects to further improve the MlA1 fire control components: (1)
electronic image stabilization via improved image signal processing for second-generation thermal
imaging systems and (2) an improved high-performance, uncooled, forward-looking infrared (FLIR)
sensor to increase the acquisition range and overmatch capability for Marine Corps combat vehicles
under all battlefield conditions.
As part of MlA1 firepower enhancement, the Firepower thrust has made a limited investment (Code
353 input is anoroximatelv 1 percent of the total Program dollars) in a much larger Program at DRS
Technologies, Inc., for application of the second-generation thermal imaging target information system.
The Gen II MlA1 FLIR system is used in the gunner's primary sight. The focal plane array consists of
a cooled (77 K) HgC6Te sensor. Of special interest to the Marine Corps are improvements in options for
increased targeting range and field of view, as well as automated image enhancement and rugged
packaging. This thermal imaging system is designed to be retrofitted on the MlAl. The funding will run
through FY04.
1 1 ~ 1 1 "7 ~
"7 1 "7
Electronic Image Stabilization (6.2~. The objectives of the electronic image stabilization project are to
improve the second-generation thermal imaging systems on Marine Corns combat vehicles through
system image stabilization, scene-based nonuniformity correction, and moving target indication capa-
bility. Accomplishments to date were said to include interpolation algorithms for improved electronic
zoom and software algorithms to enhance broad area contrast.
~ ~ ,
. . · ,% · . . .
· . . · . — . —
Recommendation. Code 353 should reexamine the rate of progress of the electronic image stabili-
zation project.
High-Performance, Low-Cost, Uncooled Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) Project (6.24. The objec-
tive of this project is to introduce a high-performance, low-cost, uncooled FLIR into the Gen II MlA1
FLIR, presumably in place of the current Gen II HgCUTe focal plane array, which must be cooled to 77
K. If performance is adequate, there are significant advantages in acquisition cost, logistics, and conve-
nience to be achieved.
Findings. Limited information was presented on expected performance improvements or retrofit-
ting for the second-generation thermal imaging system, making it difficult to assess the impact of the
MCS&T investment in this very large scale, long-term effort. Nonetheless, unique Marine Corps needs
for operating in adverse conditions and for retrofitting of the MlA1 make it worthwhile for the Marine
5Marine Corps Combat Development Command. 2003. Field Report Marine Corps Systems Command Liaison Team,
Central Iraq (April 20-25, 2003J, Quantico, Va., May.
CORE THRUSTS
57
Corps to invest in the development of the latest thermal imaging systems. Given the important role of
thermal imaging systems, it is important for Code 353 to be cognizant of the latest developments and
their impact on Marine Corps weapons systems as well as to maintain the expertise to monitor ongoing
programs throughout the joint Services.
If this project is the only one currently addressing the potential insertion of an uncooled focal plane
array into the second-generation FLIR, then it could be truly significant. No transition plans were discussed,
although this appears to be yet another Core Thrust effort with strong emphasis on transition goals.
Recommendation. Code 353 should reexamine the high-performance, low-cost, uncooled FLIR
project to ensure that it does not duplicate other Service efforts to develop and apply uncooled focal
plane arrays.
Non-Lethal Weapons
The 2000 assessment of ONR's MCS&T program noted that although the Marine Corps had been
designated as the lead Service for non-lethal weapons in the Department of Defense, there were never-
theless no Marine Corps projects supporting work in this area.6 The committee is pleased that Code 353
is now investigating non-lethal weapons.
Code 353's work in non-lethal weapons supports mission needs statement (MNS) 1-85, Operational
Capability in Military Operations Other Than War. MNS 1-85 expresses the need for a capability to
incapacitate human threats in a less-than-lethal manner, through the use of electromuscular disrupters.
The MNS requires a system that is effective at up to 100 meters and non-lethal from the muzzle of the
system to maximum range in effect a point and/or area crowd control capability. The system should be
compatible with the modular M-16 rifle to give the small unit/individual rifleman a complementary non-
lethal capability. The overall objective is to increase the decision space before using lethal means to
change the behavior of hostile groups.
A non-lethal weapon that injects electrical energy into a human at high voltage, high frequency, low
current, and with very short pulses is generally known as a stun gun. There are approximately a dozen
manufacturers of such weapons and each uses slightly different pulse parameters. The stun gun inca-
pacitates an individual by stimulating nerve cells proximate to the discharge region and temporarily
overriding normal motor control signals, causing uncontrollable muscular contractions. Complete re-
covery occurs within about 15 minutes after the stun gun is turned off.
Off-the-shelf stun guns are widely used in law enforcement because of their great effectiveness.
Their safety has received a moderate amount of attention in safety documentation by manufacturers, but
little or no data are found in the peer-reviewed literature, and the basic mechanisms are not well studied.
The effectiveness of these systems is severely limited in military operations by the fact that they can be
used only at arm's length. A somewhat greater standoff distance is afforded by newer stun gun muni-
tions, which can be projected as darts (two per round with trailing wires) and which have an effective
range of 12 to 15 meters, or air lasers with a range of about 20 meters, although 90 to 100 meters would
be more useful for military applications. A more novel concept is a proposed cylindrical dart mine,
which, when triggered, would spew darts in all directions for area denial. Its effectiveness remains to be
established.
6Naval Studies Board, National Research Council. 2000. 2000 Assessment of the Office of Naval Research's Marine Corps
Science and Technology Program, National Academy Press, Washington, D.C.
58
2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Code 353, in collaboration with the Marine Corps Systems Command, has selected three projects-
two with fairly conventional, low-risk approaches and one that, should the concept be viable, would be
a leap ahead in neuromuscular disruption (NMD) capability. The work was designed to be done in four
phases. At the time of this review, it was in Phase 2 and was scheduled to transition to the Marine Corps
Systems Command upon the completion of Phase 2.
The MCS&T program's non-lethal weapons efforts are coordinated with the Joint Non-Lethal
Weapons Directorate and with ONR Code 341, the Medical Science and Technology Division. In view
of the relatively limited valid medical data on the effects of stun guns, collaboration with ONR's
Medical Science and Technology Division becomes very important.
Neuromuscular Disrupter System for the M203 Launcher (6.2~. Phase 1 of this project focused on the
development of a miniaturized neuromuscular disruption system projected by the M203 launcher and
ultimately capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously. One approach included dispersing and
energizing chaff, determining the suitability of various chaff materials, and investigating size, sub-
stance, and energy output. In addition, the effects of various surfaces, footwear, and clothing were
analyzed to guide the design effort. Another approach investigated chaff-like strands. The strands
deliver a regulated pulsating shock. The investigation assessed whether a charge could be delivered
throughout the target set without achieving lethal levels in one or more of the targets, whether the charge
might simply arc to the ground, and targeting mechanisms.
The work in Phase 2 focused on high-voltage generation, the optimization of preliminary circuitry,
and multiple-target effectiveness. The feasibility of using a diagnostic sensor to provide an externally
visible system check on the munition is also being explored.
Smart Dart System (6.24. This system is a pneumatically launched, nontethered dart that can engage
targets from 0 to 100 meters away with accuracy and variable velocity. The electrode is designed to
attach itself to the target and deliver a non-lethal but incapacitating electrical shock upon impact. The
neuromuscular disruption technology that is employed in this concept is relatively mature and proven.
However, a need exists to miniaturize the equipment and optimize it for this specific intended use. In
addition this NMD dart will provide an optional capability namely, to have its output energy con-
trolled by an operator in real time.
Development of Long-Range TASER (6.2~. Phase 1 of this project involved waveform development
and testing. Waveforms were designed to test the key variables in neuromuscular disruption of mamma-
lian subjects. The commercially available M26 TASER was used to establish a baseline. Various
waveforms were subsequently applied to determine waveforms that would cause neuromuscular disrup-
tion more efficiently.
Phase 2 involves development of a proof of concept focusing on electronic circuit design, ballistic
design testing, electrode design, and impact management.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue its non-lethal weapons projects neuromuscular dis-
ruption system, smart dart system, and long-range TASER through completion of Phase 2 develop-
ment.
Recommendation. After the non-lethal weapons projects have been transferred to the Marine Corps
Systems Command, as scheduled, Code 353 should undertake new efforts in non-lethal weapons tech-
nology. A recently published study by the Committee for an Assessment of Non-Lethal Weapons
CORE THRUSTS
59
Science and Technology (of the Naval Studies Board) contains extensive recommendations for research
in the area of non-lethal weapons S&T.7 The current committee sees no need to restate these recommen-
dations. However, it does recommend, in the strongest terms, that Code 353 review those recommenda-
tions and structure a robust program based on them.
Infantry Reconnaissance Round (6.2)
The objective of the infantry reconnaissance round project is to give small units of Marine Corps
infantry a responsive aerial reconnaissance capability by integrating a high-resolution miniature camera
with an M853A1 81-mm mortar round. The project is developing a round (e.g., a modified M853A1 81-
mm mortar cartridge) that has a charge-coupled device camera and data link transmitter to be used to
sense and transmit an image of the battlefield. For night operation, it can be coordinated with an
illuminator round.
Findings and Recommendations. The committee believes that the infantry reconnaissance round project
can provide useful images, probably enabling a properly equipped receiver to view the battlefield, detect
enemy presence, and ascertain battle damage. That it will be controllable by a small unit, compatible
with available equipment, and able to quickly provide an image will probably make it a useful device.
However, as described, the concept for determining location, if needed, was sketchy, and no error
analysis was provided. The potential for its transition to the LC-FNC or the Expeditionary Fire Support
System was mentioned, although no time frame was indicated.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that the infantry reconnaissance round project's devel-
opment goals support Marine Corps warfighting strategy and needs. If they do, Code 353 should
continue the project as planned.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that the design of the infantry reconnaissance round is
compatible with readily available signal receivers and display hardware.
6.3 Firepower
Objective Crew Served Weapon
The objective crew served weapon (OCSW) is the weapon subsystem portion of the Army's Land
Warrior System. Considered the next-generation, crew served weapon system, it was planned and is
managed by the Joint Small Arms Program Office. The OCSW is a 25-mm gun with laser range finder
and day/night sight for full-solution fire control and is envisioned to replace select 44-mm MK19
automatic grenade launcher machine guns, .50-caliber M2 heavy machine guns, and medium machine
guns. It is an Army S&T Objective program and a Defense Technology Objective program, as well as an
ATD program organized principally by the Army, with General Dynamics as the prime developer.
Findings and Recommendations. It was not clear from the presentation what the role of Code 353 and
the Marine Corps is in this well-funded and mature Army program. The review materials claimed
7National Research Council. 2003. An Assessment of Non-Lethal Weapons Science and Technology, National Academies
Press, Washington, D.C.
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
It appears that Code 353 has discontinued its training program in MOUT even though training
specific to MOUT continues to increase in importance. Cooperation and coordination with the other
Services should allow the Marine Corps to reap substantial rewards with small investments. At the very
least, the Marine Corps could consider becoming a testbed for the evaluation of Army-developed
MOUT training technologies and could strive to influence work done in support of Special Operations
forces in other Services.
Recommendation. Code 353 should keep abreast of ONR and other Service investments in training and
education in order to be able to influence them. In addition, programs in intelligent tutoring systems by
ONR and the Army (especially the FY04 Science and Technology Objective in this area managed by the
Army Research Institute) could offer significant benefits to the Marine Corps if appropriate personnel
from Code 353 were placed on the relevant integrated product teams.
Recommendation. On a very basic level, the Marine Corps should monitor the reorganization of all
Navy education and training and the deployment of asynchronous distributed learning capabilities by
both the Army and the Navy. The Marine Corps will probably have to develop some content that is
specific to its doctrine and training needs, but the payoff from appropriate leveraging could be very
large.
Recommendation. Code 353 is strongly urged to leverage and influence research on human perfor-
mance assessment, both within Code 353's current portfolio and in relation to all Marine Corps training
and education. Research on human performance assessment should be an integral part of all human
performance, training, and education research sponsored by Code 353, could be accomplished with
relatively small investments, and would certainly yield large dividends in terms of the feedback pro-
vided to current and future programs.
Recommendation. Code 353 is encouraged to become familiar with the Commandant of the Marine
Corps's Special Projects Directorate programs in training and education. Code 353 should also solicit
the active participation of senior Marine Corps leadership in the S&T development process for training
and education to ensure that innovative ideas and systems can be rapidly readied for testing by opera-
tional forces.
Projects Reviewed
The projects in the Human Performance, Training, and Education thrust fall into four categories:
· Tactical decision-making technology and simulations,
· Training instrumentation and situational awareness,
· Synthetic environments, and
· Augmented cognition.
Tactical Decision-Making Technology (6.2) and the USMC Family of Tactical Decision
Simulations (6.3)
The projects in the first category constitute the USMC family of tactical decision simulations
(TDSs) and are being supported to develop and demonstrate technology for a series of low-cost personal
computer (PC) games that provide realistic scenario-based training in decision making for individual
marines, small units, and MAGTF staffs. They are intended to enhance formal instruction; to support
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multiechelon, multiplayer, network-compatible TDS with robust after-action review; and to provide
multiscenario, high-repetition cognitive skills training for all MAGTF elements. The current objectives
include the following:
· Develop and demonstrate a low-cost squad-to-platoon-level TDS by leveraging the Close Com-
bat III commercial PC game.
· Develop and demonstrate a PC-based, low-cost, multiplayer company-to-battalion level TDS.
· Develop and demonstrate a low-cost, PC-based, multiplayer battalion-level and brigade-service
support group TDS.
· Develop and demonstrate a low-cost, PC-based, multiplayer TDS that will support the interac-
~ , , ~ ~ ~
tons required tor mult~agency coordination and training related to the missions ot the 4th Marine
Expeditionary Brigade/Anti-Terrorism (4th MEB AT).
· Develop and demonstrate a low-cost, PC-based, multiplayer battalion-level Combat Engineering
TDS that will reflect Marine Corps Combat Engineering doctrine through tactics, techniques, and
procedures (TTPs) related to mobility, countermobility, field fortifications, and engineer support func-
tions.
Findings and Recommendations. The tactical decision-making technology and tactical decision simu-
lations project has significant potential to impact the availability and relevance of Marine Corps training
in tactical decision making. There is no evidence that the project is leveraging similar activities spon-
sored by the Army at the Naval Postgraduate School, the Institute for Creative Technologies, and the
University of Southern California. Although the briefings to the committee stated that evaluations were
ongoing, no data were presented.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue the work on tactical decision-making technology and
the USMC family of tactical decision simulations while monitoring the many similar efforts by the
Army at the Naval Postgraduate School and the Institute for Creative Technologies and should consider
seeking synergistic interactions to meet Marine Corps needs.
Recommendation. Code 353 is urged to fund a third party (such as a university, the Army Research
Laboratory, or the Naval Air Systems Command) to conduct objective evaluations of the tactical
decision simulation systems being developed.
Training Instrumentation and Situational Awareness Technology (6.2)
The goal of the training instrumentation and situational awareness project is to develop technologies
for the generation, communication, and display of position location information (PLI) in a live-fire
training environment. The PLI includes information not only on geographic position but also on orien-
tation (azimuth and elevation) for select weapons. Display and reporting technologies will also be
developed that allow recording, displaying, and reporting the information from each training exercise,
which in turn enables training commanders to replay and revisit training exercises and increase training
effectiveness.
Findings and Recommendations. This work can be valuable for training and safety at live-fire ranges
and will be essential for the planned integration of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center with
the Army's National Training Center. However, the committee is concerned about the value of the data
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
collected for after-action reviews. If the data are simply presented to the trainee without benefit of
interpretation and comparison to baseline expectations, it may be of little value for after-action review
purposes. The committee noted that this project, originally scheduled to start in FY02, has been delayed
until FY04; the committee expressed concern that this delay might signal a low priority for this effort.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue the training instrumentation and situational awareness
project, taking special note of the planned integration of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center
and the Army's National Training Center. This project offers an excellent opportunity for the Marine
Corps to modernize its data collection and analysis technologies for use in live-fire exercises.
Recommendation. Code 353 should fund the development of intelligent agent technology to access,
digest, and organize data from the network of intelligent sensor nodes funded by this project. This
postevent analysis stage should enhance the value of data collected for after-action reviews.
lo, , lo,
Synthetic Environment Technology (6.2) and Synthetic Environments (6.3)
The purpose of the work on synthetic environment technology and synthetic environments is to
develop technology for rapid and automated three-dimensional scene generation for capturing and
converting real-world terrain and cultural features into three-dimensional images suitable for real-time
training on urban settings. Desired capabilities include near-real-time scene generation. a common
° ~ — - - -- - -A - --r -- - --- -- - - --- - - -- -- _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _____ _ _ _ __ _
. . . ~ . . . ~ · . · . . ~ . . · · · . .. · . . ~ · .. .. . ~
Database format, real-time video integration, and trainee immersion to allow interaction with synthetic
opposing forces. Rapid terrain generation from contemporary data sources is essential for the creation
and adaptation of useful synthetic environments.
Findings and Recommendations. It was not clear to the committee whether the contractor was develop-
ing all of the elements needed in this project or was making use of some COTS products and/or the
products of other research groups inside or outside the military. The development of a common database
format is important but should not be done in isolation from similar activities in other Service programs
and in 1nclustry. l he project on 1ncloor position location 1ntormatlon IS necessary to support trammg tor
MOUT. The integration of live and virtual environments could lead to large savings in training develop-
ment costs and to low-cost improvements in fidelity.
The briefings delivered to the committee stated that evaluations were ongoing, although no evalua-
tions or evaluation criteria were presented. AnnarentlY it is the developers that are conducting the
evaluations. The briefings did not provide any insight into the degree to which the synthetic environ-
ment technology would support the imposition of stressors on the trainees to more realistically simulate
the combat environment.
rid - -rr --- -----a
-r -
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue the synthetic environment technology and synthetic
environments projects, but with a clear understanding and leveraging of what is under development by
other Services, industry, and academia.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that training tools for mission rehearsal take account of
human factors.
Recommendation. Code 353 should fund a third party (such as a university, the Army Research
Laboratory, or the Naval Air Systems Command) to conduct objective evaluations of the systems being
developed under the synthetic environment technology and synthetic environments projects.
CORE THRUSTS
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Recommendation. Code 353 should augment the synthetic environment technology and synthetic
environments projects so that they can introduce combat-related stressors to high-fidelity visual scenes.
Augmented Cognition (6.2)
Code 353 has recently begun supporting DARPA's augmented cognition project. The purpose of
this effort is to develop and demonstrate novel brain/machine symbiosis that would augment human
cognition and performance. The goal is to enable asymmetric thinking, intuitive decision making, rapid
pattern recognition, and dominant intellectual maneuver in volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous
warfare environments.
Findings and Recommendation. To date the augmented cognition project has been funded mostly by
DARPA and has produced impressive results in cognitive monitoring and performance enhancement. It
was not clear to the committee how the next phase of this project will connect to the other 6.1, 6.2, and
6.3 investments being made by Code 353. In Phase 2 the augmented cognition project will address ways
to manipulate the cognitive states of individuals. This effort could have profound implications for
training, but how will it inform current and future Code 353 R&D? The briefing indicated that ONR will
"focus on defining requirements and assessing the most successful components" of the project. ONR is
committing $5.8 million to the project through FY08.
~7 ~7 1 J
Recommendation. Code 353 should develop a clear understanding of how the augmented cognition
A, A,
project could contribute to current and future R&D on training and education. The ONR investment
should ensure that products of the augmented cognition project fill specific Marine Corps needs and can
be transitioned both to the MCS&T program and to appropriate FNCs. In addition, some 6.1 investments
could complement the larger investment in the augmented cognition project by focusing on neuropsy-
chology.
COMMAND, CONTROL, COMMUNICATIONS, COMPUTERS, INTELLIGENCE,
SURVEILLANCE, AND RECONNAISSANCE (C4ISR) THRUST
Tactical expeditionary warfare places heavy demands on a commander' s ability to provide effective
command and control of assigned forces operating according to the advanced tactical warfare doctrines
of STOM and OMFTS. One reason for this is that the commander's forces may be dispersed over an
area extending several hundred miles in width and depth and encompassing different types of terrain and
sea conditions. Integral to effective expeditionary warfare are capabilities associated with a comprehen-
sive and timely knowledge of the battle region, the status and location of friendly forces, and the status,
location, and intent of enemy forces.
Technology associated with the development of new capabilities to support C4ISR is of paramount
importance to realizing the goals of tactical expeditionary warfare.
C4ISR Thrust Overall Findings and Recommendation
ONR's MCS&T C4ISR thrust has directed its limited 6.2 and 6.3 resources to (1) projects con-
cerned primarily with new communications technology and (2) projects more or less unique to Marine
Corps needs. The committee finds that while this strategy is certainly the preferred approach, at the same
time it means that ONR program managers must interface with the other Services and DARPA research
efforts in C4ISR to ensure that Marine Corps technology needs are being addressed.
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue to invest its research resources in C4ISR areas that are
tightly coupled to the Marine Corps operational concepts of Ship-to-Objective Maneuver and Opera-
tional Maneuver From the Sea. Especially in the domain of C4ISR, a small investment in a critical area,
coupled with other Service and Department of Defense investments, could produce significant results
for the Marine Corps.
The projects reviewed are grouped into the following three functional categories and are discussed
below in the order shown:
· Communications
Conformal antennas
Mobile network management
Wearable antenna
Joint Tactical Radio System
Ultrawideband radio assessment
· Command and Control
Magnetic random access memory
Marine Corps C3 S&T testbed
· ISR
Mobile direction finding
Conformal Antennas (6.2)
Communications
The conformal antenna research project is intended to provide broadband antennas (30 to 512 MHz)
for application to armored vehicles, such as the MlA1 tank and the AAAV, in a conformal configuration
that lacks a distinctive visual signature. Two approaches are being pursued. The first is the use of
artificial magnetic conductors as an inductive backplane to produce relatively flat broadband UHF and
VHF performance across the band in a multiarmed spiral antenna. This effort also includes development
of a VHF slot antenna. The second approach uses low-temperature cofired ceramics as a textured
impedance-matching receiver to allow a spiral planar conformal antenna to have tunable performance
over both UHF and VHF bands. Considerable broadband capability exists in the class of antennas
known as frequency independent, and the parameters of planar equiangular spiral antennas are well
understood.
Broadband antennas are used primarily in practical applications, one of which is point-to-point
communications in the VHF-UHF range. The total arm length of a finite equiangular spiral antenna
determines the lowest frequency of operation. Whether the antenna consists of two metallic arms in free
space or a spiraling slot on a large conducting plane, the radiation patterns are bidirectional, single-
lobed, and broadside, assuming a balanced feed structure. Polarization varies from linear through
elliptical polarization to circular as frequency increases or the on-axis direction of the beam is ap-
proached. When cavity backing is included in the design, the configuration becomes unidirectional. The
artificial magnetic conductor back-plane in development is presumably intended to serve this same
purpose and to enable mounting the antenna on a vehicle surface.
CORE THRUSTS
77
Findings and Recommendations. The antenna is planned to consist of a flat panel mounted to the
surface of a ground vehicle such as a tank and for this reason is referred to as conformal. Since this
project represents an initial study to develop feasible conformal antennas, the proposed antenna location
on the vehicle and the degree to which the antenna surface may depart from a plane were not discussed.
Full-scale radiation pattern measurements of the tank-mounted configuration should be provided, to-
gether with such additional data as beam width, gain, radar cross section, polarization, voltage standing
wave radio as a function of frequency, and so on.
The committee also found that although one of the objectives was to provide flexible, reasonable-
cost, low-observable apertures for ground vehicles, there was no mention of any effort to study cost
trade-offs among the back-plane materials and/or antenna designs that are being considered.
~ or ~ ~ ·~., ~ , ~ ·,. ~ r , · ,~ ~ ~ , r ~ ~~ ~ , · ~~
Attordab~l~ty has proven to be a critical factor In the development ot broadband antennas, especially
when the intention is to create a conformal configuration on the surfaces of vehicles where multiple
antenna faces are required to achieve acceptable multidirectional capabilities.
The suggested configuration (i.e., conformal planar spiral antenna) is promising as a military com-
munications antenna with low observable characteristics.
Recommendation. Code 353 should obtain, at the earliest possible time, the measured properties of
a single conformal antenna configuration mounted on a tank surface and determine the properties of
arrays of such configurations. The project should explore the trade-offs inherent in selecting a set of
locations and the number of elements in a suitable array.
Recommendation. Code 353 should conduct an antenna affordability analysis to accompany the
selection of antenna materials and should specifically address how cost will be traded off against
performance objectives.
Mobile Network Management (6.2)
Commercial wireless networks using cell phones are growing in popularity all over the world.
Technology for such networks is ubiquitous, has been well developed, and is still being developed.
International protocols vary, and it is hoped that only a very few, possibly only two, will become
standard the world over. These commercial networks have used fixed nodes (base stations) that relay
messages between any two participating customers. Commercial fixed, dedicated base stations make
routing tables possible and permit seamless connections between any two users. On a fluid battlefront,
however, such fixed base stations do not exist, and the objective is to enable seamless routing through
mobile backbone nodes with the Joint Tactical Radio System and legacy radio networks, with nodes that
can communicate seamlessly through ad hoc multihop networks. The preferred solution is to make every
user a potential node for other users. Code 353 is currently negotiating a contract with an industry
performer that would build on previous ad hoc networking concepts developed through DARPA. Be-
cause this project promises a software solution to enable automated control over dynamic network
formation and maintenance, and seamless routing among subnetworks, it offers the potential for signifi-
cant increases in network scalability and robustness. Recently, ad hoc networks have begun the transi-
tion from military research to commercial applications, and commercial systems are expected to be
available soon.
Findings and Recommendations. The mobile network management project will be a new start on a vital
capability. A Broad Area Announcement is expected by the end of FY03.
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue with its plan to start work on the management of
mobile networks, but should incorporate into the criteria for project selection the wireless networking
results of the recent experiment on extending the littoral battlefield.
Recommendation. Code 353 should seek to leverage Army S&T efforts in the area of mobile
networks.23
Recommendation. Code 353 should consider the impact on mobile networks of the increased
battery power required when users double as distributed network nodes.
Wearable Antenna (6.2)
The wearable antenna project, intended to develop a wideband antenna wearable by ground forces
to reduce exposure of radio personnel to potential threats, was concluded in early FY03 and transferred
to the U.S. Army's Communications Electronics Command.
Findings and Recommendation. The current wearable antenna configuration approximates a Faraday
cage, so there is expected to be zero electromagnetic field strength where the wearer is. However, that
claim cannot be made for the wearable antenna configuration that was presented. The committee was
informed that the field inside the vest had been measured and was "quite small." The briefing materials
stated that user safety had been documented at Brooks Air Force Base, but the committee expressed
concern that wearer safety cannot be assured without longitudinal studies of the wearable antenna's
effects on vital human internal systems and processes.
Recommendation. If the Marine Corps is still interested in a wearable antenna system above and
beyond the work transitioned to the Army, Code 353 should carefully monitor the Army's efforts in this
area. If wearable antenna projects are to be pursued, Code 353 should investigate alternative antenna
configurations that reduce or eliminate potential human safety issues.
Joint Tactical Radio System (6.2 and 6.3)
The Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) is a joint Service effort to develop a software program-
mable radio that will accommodate most existing tactical waveforms. The ONR JTRS research effort
has focused largely on supporting Marine Corps participation in integrated product teams (IPTs) for
JTRS waveform standards, development of a system-level architecture for a Marine Corps JTRS-based
mobile radio network, and communications models to evaluate alternative architecture approaches. The
effort began in FY01 and is planned to transition to Marine Corps development programs in FY04.
Findings and Recommendations. The development of an interoperable tactical communications wide-
band network based on the JTRS architecture should receive the highest priority in the MCS&T research
program. The committee considers continued involvement in the JTRS effort to be critical to the
development of future tactical communications systems. The presentations indicated that Marine Corps-
23For example, the Communication and Networking Collaborative Technology Alliance program established by the Army
Research Laboratory, U.S. Army Material Command, Adelphi, Md., May 2001.
CORE THRUSTS
79
based JTRS network architectures, network protocols, and network architecture development models
were under way and would be concluding in early FY04.
Recommendation. Code 353 should examine alternative Marine Corps tactical architectures em-
ploying the JTRS standards and protocols that are emerging from the Army' s Cluster I effort.
Recommendation. Code 353 should continue Marine Corps participation in the joint Service efforts
to establish JTRS standards.
Recommendation. Code 353 should use the results of the architectural studies funded by this project
to guide the Marine Corps position on JTRS standards.
Ultrawideband Radio Assessment (6.3)
The ultrawideband (UWB) radio assessment is an advanced development activity for demonstrating
the use of UWB radios in communicating limited distances in urban environments and in selected
command center applications. UWB radios operate by emitting very short pulses that have extremely
large bandwidths. Such radios may have fractional bandwidths of over 50 percent. A dual-use contract
funded by Code 353 from FY 99 to FY01 produced several UWB radios, some of which operate at a
center frequency of 50 kHz and others of which operate at a center frequency of 2 GHz. The potential
benefits of UWB radios are that they offer some degree of low probability of intercept and low probabil-
ity of detection, and they may be useful in MOUT for communicating through building walls, and they
may have low power requirements and low cost. This project aims to verify the manufacturer' s technical
specifications and determine the military uses of UWB radios. UWB radios require very precise timing
synchronization (on the order of nanoseconds for microwave pulses) between stations, which places
limits on how far apart the stations can be located.
Findings and Recommendations. UWB radio technology offers several significant advantages in tacti-
cal communications. While no specific information on the performance of these radios was available,
clearly much more effort is needed to quantify how well these radios perform.
The committee endorses Code 353's plan to perform such tests in FY03 and FY04. One critical test
should be a controlled experiment to determine the technical feasibility of establishing UWB radio links
and networks (at the bit error rate level) in various tactical environments (with structures, vegetation,
trees, and so forth) to quantitatively measure and demonstrate communications performance. Military
utility should be demonstrated first through the use of UWB radio system and propagation models and
then in selected field experiments involving military operations in urban terrain and other settings,
including background signal environments. Consideration should also be given to an analysis of mobile
applications of UWB radios. The committee believes that Doppler effects could have a significant
impact on precise timing synchronization in such a mobile network.
Recommendation. Code 353 should proceed with the ultrawideband radio assessment through
completion, as planned.
Recommendation. Code 353 should ensure that the ultrawideband radio assessment tests examine
the influence of multipath and background signal environments on radio performance.
80
Magnetic Random Access Memory (6.2)
2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Command and Control
The extreme environments of Marine Corps warfighting take a heavy toll on electronic equipment.
One especially sensitive component has been magnetic hard-drive data-storage devices. These devices
have proven difficult to ruggedize to enable their routine use by individual marines in the field. While
durable solid-state memory elements, such as memory sticks, are available, they employ a serial data-
storage format (all data stored after a file was stored must be reread to reach and read a given file). As
an alternative high-density storage media, ONR and other federal funding agencies are investing in the
development of magnetic random access memory (MRAM) chips. In the early 1990s, basic research on
multilayer magnetic films led to the discovery that the orientation of magnetic layers in a multilayer
stack could be used to store bits of data. Bit densities of up to 400 Gbits/cm2 have been projected.
Findings and Recommendations. The 3-year magnetic random access memory project seeks to inte-
grate current chip manufacturing techniques to enable volume production of MRAM chips. Leveraging
past ONR basic and applied research, it aims to develop and field a set of complete 80-kb MRAM data
storage chips. The results of the project are being measured appropriately against existing solid-state
devices and ruggedized hard drives to assess issues of potential durability and data density as well as
ease and cost of manufacture. This project could impact the Marine Corps and other Service compo-
nents.
Recommendation. Code 353 should proceed with the magnetic random access memory project
through completion, as planned.
Recommendation. After concluding the magnetic random access memory research effort, Code 353
should closely examine the project and address how data-storage density, device durability, power
needs, and the influence of stray radiation affect the devices.
Recommendation. Owing to the rapid progress in the area of magnetic data storage and in new
competing technologies, Code 353 should closely monitor other federal and industrial research pro-
grams in this field and should seek out potential leveraging opportunities.
Marine Corps C3 S&T Testbed (6.3)
The Marine Corps C3 S&T testbed was described as a physical facility for testing and evaluating
software designed for Marine Corps C2 systems. The testbed is located at the Marine Corps Tactical
Systems Support Activity, Camp Pendleton, California, the site of the System Integration Environment
where the Marine Corps Systems Command evaluates software for insertion into acquisition programs.
The testbed was described as being able to replicate equipment and software associated with Marine
Corps regimental-level C2 systems. No specific descriptions of the architecture, the supporting soft-
ware, or the hardware for the testbed were given during the review.
Findings and Recommendations. A stand-alone Marine Corps C3 software advanced developmental
testbed could greatly reduce the technical risk in emerging tactical demonstrations and acquisition
programs. The committee endorses the need for a testbed as a means of investigating and validating new
CORE THRUSTS
8
software concepts and implementation approaches and providing a proof-of-concept capability for
demonstrating military utility prior to insertion in an acquisition program. Such an investment is entirely
appropriate in light of Marine Corps requirements and developmental objectives for state-of-the-art C3
capabilities and should have a significant impact on achieving these objectives.
The effort exhibits reasonably close integration with similar ongoing Navy and other Marine Corps
testbed activities, although the presentations did not specify any results of integration efforts thus far.
The fact that the testbed is located adjacent to the Marine Corps system integration environment
indicates that there is at least a potential for experimentation using a direct feed from systems that are in
developmental testing. Also, interaction is planned with a similar Navy C3 testbed at the SPAWAR
Systems Center in San Diego (SSC-SD), which could lead to improved interfaces with Navy supporting
software. The review indicated that SSC-SD was one of the supporting performers, and thus interactive
testing is entirely possible, although it was not brought up during this review.
The documentation and briefing material on the testbed were not adequate for the committee to
evaluate the size of the effort and compare it with other testbed activities. Development of the testbed
was scheduled to take place over 4 years, but no specific milestones were presented in the briefing
material. The final testing phase was presented as starting in FY03 and being completed in late FY04.
of
O - - 1-
Specific tests and test results obtained up to that time were not presented.
Technical risk is considered to be moderate at this time, given the lack of specific information on
testbed architecture, infrastructure, interoperability among supporting software routines, and measures
of effectiveness and performance.
Recommendation. Code 353 should proceed with development of the Marine Corps C3 S&T
testbed through completion and testing, as planned.
Recommendation. Following completion, Code 353 should transition this project to a Future Naval
Capability or to the Marine Corps Systems Command as soon as is feasible.
Recommendation. Code 353 should establish, at the earliest possible time, a set of specific test
objectives for the testbed and a plan to achieve them. Intrinsic to this plan should be a series of interface
demonstrations showing the ability of the testbed to take direct feeds from the system integration
environment and, accordingly, the advantages of new software approaches and concepts for Marine
Corps tactical utility. The plan should also provide qualitative and quantitative measures of performance
to demonstrate the testbed's utility and operational effectiveness.
Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance
Mobile Direction Finding (6.2 and 6.3)
The goal of the recently completed/transferred mobile direction finding project was to develop
hardware and software for mobile direction-finding operations. The activities included development of
software for compression and characterization of signals and hardware for antenna and system timing.
In general, the direction of arrival of a radio wave can be deduced by pointing a directional antenna or
from the time difference of arrival of the wave at three (or more) points of a base array. For typical
systems, the larger the antenna or array, the more accurate the direction finding will be. Errors tend to
increase as the signals environment becomes more complex, usually because of external noise or
multiple reflections.
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2003 ASSESSMENT OF ONR'S MARINE CORPS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Findings and Recommendations. Code 353 has undertaken to improve the hardware and software
necessary for improved direction finding and to develop signal characterization and compression algo-
rithms efficient enough to run on a personal computer. It was not clear which antennas or mobile
platforms were used in this project, which terrain models were being considered, or what the total
system looked like. The Army also has a vital interest in mobile direction finding, but Code 353
indicated that relevant Army work was not being monitored.
This project has since been transferred to the LC-FNC as a follow-on effort that is reviewed in
Chapter 2, in the section titled "EC 1 Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance for the Amphibi-
ous Force," under the radio frequency emitter mapping payload project, where related recommendations
are presented.
