The disruptive Impact of dynamic laser dazzling on template matching algorithms applied to thermal infrared imagery

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

26 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) systems are crucial for effective defence against modern infrared-guided threats. These systems provide significant advantages over traditional countermeasures, including rapid, precise, deep-magazine, and automatic response capabilities. These capabilities have the potential to thwart even the most advanced threats. However, realising this potential requires overcoming the problem of "home on jam," caused by a dazzled scene indicating the location of the laser from a simple profile. To address this issue, we propose a novel approach that considers dazzling as a dynamic property, aiming not to obscure the target completely but instead deceive the seeker through false targets. This paper assesses the impact of various approaches to confuse an infrared imager with the laser beam's varying spatial and temporal properties. We quantify the effect using scale-invariant template matching AI, comparing the similarity and the impact of laser and image properties on the effectiveness of in-band dazzling. Specifically, we use a Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) with a peak wavelength of 4.6 microns to illuminate a thermal infrared imager within the 3 to 5 microns (MWIR) operating band. We project silhouette targets on the imager, representing aerial targets of interest, in the location of the imaged laser spot. Our findings highlight the importance of considering dynamic dazzle properties to overcome the home-on-jam problem. Our proposed approach shows promising results by utilising multiple targets and varying the spatial and temporal properties of the laser beam. We use several template-matching metrics to demonstrate the efficacy of our strategy and provide insights into how laser and image properties impact its effectiveness.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationTechnologies for Optical Countermeasures XIX
EditorsRobert J. Grasso, Marc Eichhorn, Gareth D. Lewis
PublisherSociety of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers
Number of pages15
Volume12738
ISBN (Electronic)9781510667051
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Oct 2023
EventTechnologies for Optical Countermeasures XIX 2023 - Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 5 Sept 2023 → …

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume12738
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceTechnologies for Optical Countermeasures XIX 2023
Country/TerritoryNetherlands
CityAmsterdam
Period5/09/23 → …

Keywords

  • DIRCM
  • MWIR
  • QCL
  • imaging seeker
  • infrared
  • laser dazzle
  • modulation
  • normalised cross-correlation
  • template matching

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The disruptive Impact of dynamic laser dazzling on template matching algorithms applied to thermal infrared imagery'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.
  • SPIE Security + Defence 2023

    Lewis, G. (Chair)

    3 Sept 20237 Sept 2023

    Activity: Participating in or organising an event (conference, measurement campaign, ...)Organising a conference, workshop, ... (outside RMA)

Cite this