Anna Forrester
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is seeking information on nonradar technology that would help new unmanned surface vessels under the Anti-Submarine Warfare Continuous Trail Unmanned Vessel program identify objects in its vicinity.
DARPA said Thursday the request for information focuses on delivering the capability to track and classify those objects and direct autonomous behavior based on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
“We’re looking for test-ready, multisensor approaches that push the boundaries of today’s automated sensing systems for unmanned surface vessels,” said Scott Littlefield, program manager at DARPA.
“Enhancing the ability of these kinds of vessels to sense their environment in all weather and traffic conditions, day or night, would significantly advance our ability to conduct a range of military missions.”
The agency is looking for responses in the technical areas of maritime perception sensors, maritime perception software and classification software for day shapes and navigation lights.
DARPA will accept responses to the RFI through April 28.
