Passive-Active Combo System for Unmanned Characterization of Littoral Environments

The DON26BZ01-NV026 RFP seeks to develop a lightweight, integrated passive imaging and LiDAR system for unmanned aerial platforms (Group 2 UAVs) to characterize littoral environments. The objective is to achieve maritime dominance by rapidly characterizing shallow, nearshore areas for bathymetry retrieval, underwater target detection, and land-ocean interface characterization. Current systems are limited by payload weight, compromising sensor performance or using unsuitable LiDAR. The proposed solution involves a passive imager and a non-scanning, nadir-viewing dual-wavelength LiDAR for simultaneous deployment. The system should provide rapid onboard processing and real-time downlink of true-color composites, topo-bathy maps, target detection maps, and terrain characterization maps for coastal waters up to 20 meters deep in moderately turbid conditions. Phase I focuses on simulation and feasibility studies, while Phase II involves prototype development and demonstration. Phase III outlines dual-use applications for military mine detection and commercial environmental monitoring. The technology is subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions.